Hospital or Surgical Center Call - CDT Code Guide
Overview
CDT Code D9420 refers to services provided by a dentist to a patient who is in a hospital or ambulatory surgical center. This code is used when care is delivered outside the traditional dental office setting. It is important for dental professionals to understand that this code covers the dentist's presence and consultation at the facility, but any specific procedures performed on the same day should be documented and billed separately using the appropriate procedure codes. This code is crucial for situations where patients require dental expertise in a hospital setting, such as pre-surgical evaluations or emergency dental interventions.
When to Use This Code
- When a patient requires dental evaluation or treatment in a hospital setting due to medical conditions.
- For pre-surgical dental assessments in an ambulatory surgical center.
- In cases of dental emergencies that occur while the patient is hospitalized.
- When a patient is unable to visit a dental office due to severe health issues and requires dental care in a hospital.
- For consultations requested by medical staff for dental-related concerns during a hospital stay.
Documentation Requirements
- Detailed notes on the reason for the hospital or surgical center visit.
- Documentation of the consultation or evaluation provided.
- Separate documentation for any procedures performed, with corresponding CDT codes.
- Patient's medical history and current health status relevant to the dental visit.
- Coordination notes with medical staff, if applicable.
Billing Considerations
When billing for D9420, it is important to note that this code covers the visit itself and not any specific procedures performed during the visit. Procedures should be billed separately. Check with the patient's insurance provider for any specific requirements or limitations regarding hospital or surgical center calls. Common modifiers may include those indicating the location of service or the patient's condition.
Related CDT Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
No, D9420 is typically used for a single visit per day. Additional visits should be justified and documented separately.
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