Question:

Can we report medically necessary hydration in addition to blood transfusion?

Answer:

It is appropriate to report medically necessary hydration in addition to blood transfusion. The key is to make sure that the physician’s order demonstrates medical necessity for both the blood administration and a primary service of hydration therapy. An example is when a patient receives a transfusion and later in the day requires IV hydration. The initial and additional hour codes may be reported with an applicable modifier.