Question:
Can we still bill for a unit of blood when it is split specifically with the intent of transfusion but is then not transfused?
Answer:
Where a unit of blood is split specifically with the intent of transfusion but is not then transfused, the hospital may bill for the splitting the unit of blood (CPT® 86985) but may not bill the HCPCS code for the blood product. CMS states that the date of service must be the date on which the decision not to use the blood was made. This determination must be indicated in the patient’s medical record.
This question was answered in our Coding Essentials for Laboratories. For more hot topics relating to laboratory services, please visit our store or call us at 1.800.252.1578, ext. 2.