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Ask a Rev Cycle Expert: Infusion and Injection Charges?

Question:

Patient has Benadryl® intravenous push (IVP) and TYLENOL® per os (p.o.) ordered to be given pre-transfusion as part of blood administration protocol. Should they be charged for injection for the Benadryl? Also, if medications Benadryl and Pepcid® are given for an allergic reaction (rash) during the infusion, can you charge for 96374 and 96375 for injections?

Answer:

When a medication is given as part of a protocol, it is generally not charged because medical necessity has not been established. When medication is given due to a clinical indication, such as an allergic reaction during the infusion, then you may report the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) codes for the infusion or injection based on the infusion and injection hierarchy.

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