Does Q79.9 require prior authorization?

No, Q79.9 does not require prior authorization (high confidence). Covered without prior authorization.

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`Q79.9`, Congenital malformation of musculoskeletal system, unspecified

ICD-10-CM

Prior Authorization

No Prior Auth Required

Covered without prior authorization (high confidence)

Documentation Required

For fracture-related devices, documentation of fracture type, encounter (initial/subsequent), and healing status as appropriate (coding for subsequent encounters for healing/pathologic fractures is referenced) should be included.
For replacement or component items (e.g., K0672 removable soft interface), documentation that the request is for replacement only and justification for replacement must be maintained.
For proprietary or novel devices that the policy lists as 'not covered' (e.g., Levitation 2, Cymedica QB1, S3 Brace, adjustable click systems), documentation of medical necessity will not change non-coverage unless policy is updated; such items are excluded regardless of submitted documentation.
The orthosis or prosthesis must be provided within six months of the date of prescription.

Key Coverage Criteria

Knee braces (children/congenital): Q65.81 - Q65.9; Q66.8; Q68.2; Q72.00 - Q72.93; Q74.1 - Q74.2 - Congenital deformities/reduction defects of lower limb including knee
An orthosis (orthopedic brace) and/or prosthesis is medically necessary when: care is prescribed by a physician, nurse practitioner, podiatrist or other health professional who is qualified to prescribe orthotics and/or prosthetics according to State law; and the orthosis or prosthesis will significantly improve or restore physical functions required for mobility related activities of daily living (MRADL's); and the member’s participating physician or licensed health care practitioner has determ [...]
Lumbar orthosis, lumbar-sacral orthosis, and thoracic-lumbar-sacral orthosis are medically necessary for any of the following indications: to facilitate healing following an injury to the spine or related soft tissues; to facilitate healing following a surgical procedure on the spine or related soft tissue; to reduce pain by restricting mobility of the trunk; or to support weak spinal muscles and/or a deformed spine.
Custom-fitted back brace (prefabricated back brace modified to fit a specific member) is medically necessary where there is a failure, contraindication or intolerance to an unmodified, prefabricated (off-the-shelf) back brace.
Custom-fitted back brace is medically necessary as the initial brace after surgical stabilization of the spine following traumatic injury.
Back braces: M08.1 - Juvenile ankylosing spondylitis

2 Active Policies

AETNA-CPB-0009, Orthopedic Casts, Braces and Splints

AETNA-CPB-0271, Wheelchairs and Power Operated Vehicles (Scooters)

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Q79.9, Congenital malformation of musculoskeletal system, unspecified