New Modifier FX For Use Of Film X-Rays
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) want to incentivize the transition from traditional X-ray imaging to digital radiography. To assist with this effort, CMS is reducing reimbursement by 20 percent for the technical component of X-ray imaging services using film. This went into effect on January 1.
We, as providers, are obligated to report to CMS if we are using film as opposed to digital X-ray. One must do this by appending the modifier FX to claims for X-rays using film.
This reporting modifier is mandatory for part B claims for Medicare beneficiaries. At this time, we don’t know if this 20 percent reduction will increase in future years. Something else to consider is that historically, the private, commercial payers often follow Medicare’s lead on things like this.
Dr. Lehrman is on the APMA Coding Committee, serves as an expert panelist on Codingline, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management (AAPPM). Follow him on Twitter @DrLehrman
References
1. MLN Matters® Number: MM9727. Available at https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Medicare-Learning-Network-MLN/MLNMattersArticles/Downloads/MM9727.pdf .
2. Aetna OfficeLink Updates. Available at https://www.aetna.com/healthcare-professionals/assets/documents/olu-wt-march2017.pdf?TLAETGuid%64TS_101_R0=a44e2396e752ef5d3c60bc929602e9a9ks10000000000000000ea14c9aeffff000000000000000000000000000058dc0a750040b3fc89 . Published March 2017.
