Changes in Billing Bilateral Modifiers
The DME MACs issued a joint publication notifying suppliers of a change in the way to bill for bilateral products dispensed on the same day.
The DME MACs issued a joint publication notifying suppliers of a change in the way to bill for bilateral products dispensed on the same day. Traditionally, when two of the same items are given to patients for use on both limbs, the claim is billed with the RTLT modifier and 2 units of service.
Effective for claims with dates of service on or after March 1, 2019, suppliers must bill bilateral products on two separate claim lines. One line will have the HCPCS code with the RT modifier and the next claim line will have the same HCPCS code with the LT modifier. Each unit of service is one.
Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) will be updated to reflect the correct use of bilateral modifiers.
What Does This Mean for You?
Work with your practice management system and billing company to be ready for implementation on March 1, 2019. More information can be found here.