Can CPT codes 99238-99239 be billed for pronouncement of death?
Reasonable and necessary medical services rendered up to and including pronouncement of death by a physician are covered diagnostic or therapeutic services. [CMS Manual System, Pub 100-3, Medicare National Coverage Determinations Manual, Chapter 1, Section 70.4 ( http://www.cms.hhs.gov/manuals)]. The above codes may be billed for this reason as long as the provisions of the code descriptor are met as documented in the medical record. Please see the following article published on our website 0323.4: http://www.cignamedicare.com/articles/march04/cope766.html.
