Skin tag removal
March 10th, 2009 - Codapedia EditorCategories: Coding Surgical Billing & Coding
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Many physicians report that it is difficult to get insurance companies to pay for skin tag removal. That is because most insurances consider the service to be cosmetic. If you are performing the service, tell the patient prior to providing the service that if their insurance determines the procedure to be cosmetic, you will bill them for the service. You can use a limit of liability form for your commercial patients.
For Medicare patients, cosmetic services are never covered. However, if there is a question, have the discussion with the patient and get them to sign an ABN
The code for removing up to 15 skin tags is 11200. The most common diagnosis code is 701.9.
Some coders report that if the skin tag is bleeding, or rubbing against clothing or jewelry, the insurance company may pay it. The provider should document that in the note.
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