2015 CPT Code Changes for Teletherapy and Brachytherapy Isodose Planning

by | Posted: Jan 9, 2015 | Medical Coding

Share this post:

This August, the American Medical Association (AMA) introduced the 2015 CPT code changes that will go into effect on January 1, 2015 with significant changes for radiation oncology. The revised brachytherapy and teletherapy isodose planning codes are among them. As the standards of care in this field are changing, conventional isodose planning is used less frequently and the corresponding CPT codes are overlooked. These codes are applicable to cases in which the criteria for 3D, IMRT or stereotactic (latest trends) are not met and commonly used for metastatic treatments to the brain and bone or areas in which a volume of interest and a critical structure are not defined and used for planning purposes. It is very important to understand the new changes to avoid claim denials.

Teletherapy Isodose Planning

The three codes used for teletherapy isodose planning 77305, 77310, 77315 have been deleted. Instead, two new codes will be used to report this service:

  • 77306: Teletherapy isodose plan; simple (1 or 2 unmodified ports directed to a single area of interest), includes basic dosimetry calculation(s)
  • 77307: Teletherapy isodose plan; complex (multiple treatment areas, tangential ports, the use of wedges, blocking, rotational beam, or special beam considerations), includes basic dosimetry calculation(s)

Brachytherapy Isodose Planning

The three brachytherapy CPT codes 77326, 77327 and 77328 have been deleted. New three codes have been introduced to report this service.

  • 77316: Brachytherapy isodose plan; simple (calculation[s] made from 1 to 4 sources, or remote afterloading brachytherapy, 1 channel), includes basic dosimetry calculation(s)
  • 77317: Brachytherapy isodose plan; intermediate (calculation[s] made from 5 to 10 sources, or remote afterloading brachytherapy, 2-12 channels), includes basic dosimetry calculation(s)
  • 77318: Brachytherapy isodose plan; complex (calculation[s] made from over 10 sources, or remote afterloading brachytherapy, over 12 channels), includes basic dosimetry calculation(s)

All the five new codes include the work associated with the basic dosimetry calculation. The code 77300 should not be reported with these codes. For Medicare values for the new CPT codes, check the 2015 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule.

It is time for radiation oncology practices to review their documentation and billing and make appropriate modifications to accommodate these changes. Comprehensive training should be provided to office staff to address these changes and ensure that the codes are reported correctly. Considering the support of professional billing and coding services is advisable from the point of view of reducing workload and improving productivity and revenue.

Natalie Tornese

Join Us Our Newsletter

Stay informed with our latest updates and insights.


By submitting, you consent to receive emails with a SafeUnsubscribe® link included.

Related Posts

Most Common CDT Coding Mistakes

Most Common CDT Coding Mistakes

A dentist’s clinical decisions guide the procedures performed, but accurate documentation using the correct CDT codes is crucial for proper claim submission and reimbursement. Every procedure must be documented in both the patient’s dental record and the claim form...

How to Code for Dermatomyositis – A Common Rheumatology Disorder

How to Code for Dermatomyositis – A Common Rheumatology Disorder

Regarded as a chronic inflammatory disease, dermatomyositis affects the muscles and skin. It can affect adults and children and is most commonly seen in females than males. Accurate and compliant medical billing and coding is critical not only for appropriate...

ICD-10 Coding for Thrombophilia: Best Practices & Common Pitfalls

ICD-10 Coding for Thrombophilia: Best Practices & Common Pitfalls

Thrombophilia is a medical condition that increases the risk of developing abnormal blood clots in the veins or arteries. Accurate ICD-10 coding for thrombophilia is crucial for proper documentation, appropriate billing, and optimal patient care. Following the right...