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Writer's pictureBo McCorkle

How to Use TM Flow CPT Code for Billing and Reimbursement

Updated: Nov 21



TM flow system has improved the diagnosis of vascular and autonomic nervous systems with its ability to detect them early. However, if you are a healthcare worker, you must know how to bill TM flow services. This blog is about the TM flow CPT code that will help you bill and reimburse services related to TM Flow tests.


What is the TM Flow CPT Code?

Let's first understand the TM Flow test, a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that assesses patients' vital signs, such as ABI index, blood flow, sweat gland activity, pulse wave velocity, heart rate variability, and temperature. These measurements detect issues related to the vascular system and autonomic nervous system.

Healthcare providers use CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes to describe medical, surgical, and diagnostic services. In the context of the TM Flow test,  there is no dedicated code for the TM Flow system itself. However, several related CPT codes are used depending on the specific test conducted during the TM Flow assessment.


TM Flow CPT Codes

TM Flow system performed many tests simultaneously; here are the CPT codes for these tests:


Sudomotor Test

The CPT code for assessment of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) by Quantitative Sudomotor Activity (QSART) is 95923, which is applicable to the TM flow test because it detects sudomotor activity.


Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)

TM flow test measures ABI, and its CPT code is 93922. If ABI is used for the diagnosis of PAD (peripheral arterial disease), this code can be used.


Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Function Testing

TM flow test measures parasympathetic and sympathetic responses, and the CPT code for this is 95924. TM flow machine measures heart rate, blood pressure, and sweating to detect their function.


Noninvasive Vascular Diagnostic Test

One of the major functions of TM machines is to diagnose vascular health non-invasively. Due to this, the code 93998 can be used if the test is used for vascular assessments.


Why is Accurate Billing Important in Healthcare?

Here are a few key points which prove why is important cpt codes for accurate billing:

  • With accurate billing, healthcare providers can get fair reimbursement for their services.

  • Medical billing is highly regulated, and errors in CPT codes can cause compliance issues.

  • To avoid penalties, healthcare providers must adhere to the guidelines of the American Medical Association (AMA) and related insurance companies.

  • Accurate billing helps properly process a patient's claim, reducing unexpected expenses.


How to Use CPT Code for TM Flow Correctly

Follow some of these practices to use the Tm Flow CPT codes correctly:

  • Know the exact condition being assessed with the TM Flow system and use the CPT code according to the test performed.

  • If many procedures are performed for the same patient, you may need to use modifiers to indicate that multiple tests were conducted.

  • Discuss with a healthcare billing specialist to know if you are using the correct codes.

  • Make sure that patient records clearly outline why the TM Flow test was ordered.


Issues in TM Flow Billing and Their Solutions


Lack of Specific CPT Code

Issue: As we said earlier, there is no definite code for the TM flow test, and we have to use the codes for the individual tests performed with the TM flow machine. There is a chance of error in deciding the relevant code.

Solution: Understand the exact procedures performed and use the appropriate CPT codes for each individual test


Incorrect Use of Modifiers

Issue: Sometimes, healthcare providers forget to use the modifier. Modifiers are needed in the case of multiple tests, which is common in the case of TM flow.

Solution: Apply modifier 59 to indicate that separate, distinct procedures were performed. Make sure to use modifier 25 when submitting an E/M (evaluation and management) code.


Conclusion

TM Flow machine is a powerful tool for assessing the vascular and autonomic health of the body. However, billing for these services can be difficult because of the lack of a specific CPT code. Codes for different tests of TM flow are available that can be used.


FAQs

Is there a dedicated CPT code for the TM Flow system?

No, there is currently no single CPT code for the TM Flow system, but healthcare providers can use codes for individual tests.


Can I bill for multiple tests performed with the TM Flow system?

Yes, if multiple tests are performed, you can bill for each applicable CPT code.


Can I consult with a billing expert for TM Flow coding?

Yes, consulting with a billing expert helps you identify the correct codes.


What should I do if my TM Flow test claim is denied by insurance?

If your claim is denied, review the reason provided by the insurer and check if you use the code correctly.


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