Question:
What documentation and coding considerations should be reviewed when selecting the appropriate EEG code based on the stages of recording obtained or intended?
Answer:
Review of EEG interpretation will aid in the correct code selection. When billing for 95816, the comments should reflect recording stages of awake and drowsy. Code 95819 is reported for studies that include recording of sleep. However, the line between drowsy and asleep can be difficult to determine, and it is permissible to use 95819 if a sleep study was intended, but, despite the best efforts of the technician, sleep was not obtained.
