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Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) (GEN)
Posted November 1, 2007
In the recent past, there has been inquiry in relation to Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). There is not a specific CPT code for MRCP. After inquiry to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and through other Carrier Medical Directors, it was established that MRIs are paid as one payment per body region. All that is necessary in the examination of that region is included within that MRI body region code. This information was obtained through literature of the American College of Radiology. "The coding of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is based on the anatomical area studied, not the type of views required, the position of the patient, nor the type of equipment used." The exception to that would be, if after an MRI, further study was needed as a separate examination, then that separate examination could be allowed based on the documentation and justification that the second service was necessary in that same body region. |
