Requirements for diagnostic bronchoscopic procedures

by William E. Haik, MD, FCCP

There has been a considerable amount of confusion regarding physician terminology, documentation
requirements, and subsequent coding of various diagnostic bronchoscopic lung procedures. Because the current MS-DRG structure categorizes some of these as “operating room procedures,” each  procedure carries with it different reimbursement; therefore, they are frequently the targets of third-party reviewers.

While CDI specialists do not typically clarify documentation for procedures, diagnostic bronchoscopic lung procedures are an exception. Following are thumbnail descriptions of these procedures to aid the CDI specialist when clarifying physician documentation for correct code assignment.