Bilateral Billing Under Fire: Modifier 50

CodeCast | Medical Billing and Coding Insights

In this episode of CodeCast, Terry dives into the complexities of billing bilateral procedures and the growing tension between Medicare guidelines and commercial payer policies. Modifier 50 is used to report procedures performed on both sides of the body during the same operative session. When billed correctly, the procedure should appear on a single claim line with the CPT or HCPCS code, modifier 50, and one unit of service. Depending on the procedure’s bilateral indicator, Medicare may apply a 150% payment adjustment.

However, commercial payers are increasingly rejecting this standard. Many are now reimbursing only one line item, effectively ignoring the bilateral nature of the procedure. This shift poses serious risks to patient care. Providers may be forced to schedule a second surgery, exposing patients to additional anesthesia and delaying medically necessary treatment.

Terry breaks down the implications of these policy changes and offers strategies for providers to advocate for proper reimbursement. Tune in to learn how to protect your patients and your practice from the fallout of this troubling trend.

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