Question:
Is the time spent weaning a patient off ventilation separately billable?
Answer:
No, the entire duration of the weaning period is included in the management of the patient and is not separately billable. The time associated with ventilation management ends when the patient is successfully extubated and the mechanical ventilation is shut off.
This question was answered in our Coding Essentials for RT/Pulmonary Function. For more hot topics relating to respiratory services, please visit our store or call us at 1.800.252.1578, ext. 2.