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Cast and Splint Applications and Associated Supplies
00.10.15d

Policy

Cast and splint application, reapplication, removal, and repair for non-surgical treatments of injuries (e.g. sprains, dislocations) may be covered and eligible for reimbursement consideration by the Company. 
 
Cast and splint applications are not eligible for separate reimbursement consideration when billed within the postoperative period of a procedure to repair an open or closed fracture. Payment is included in the global allowance of the procedure to repair an open or closed fracture.
 
Additionally, the reapplication, removal, and repair of a cast or splint, when performed by the same professional provider or provider group, is not eligible for separate reimbursement consideration by the Company. Payment is included in the global allowance of the procedure to repair an open or closed fracture.
 
The reapplication, removal, and repair of a cast or splint may be eligible for separate reimbursement consideration by the Company, when performed by a different professional provider or provider group other than the provider who initially performed the procedure to repair the open or closed fracture.
 
Associated supplies, listed in Attachment A of this policy, used in the application, reapplication, removal, and repair of a cast or splint may be eligible for separate reimbursement.
 
The following HCPCS codes represent general codes and are not eligible for reimbursement consideration.
  • ​Splints – A4570
  • Cast supplies (e.g., plaster) – A4580
  • Special casting material (e.g., fiberglass) – A4590
The initial application of a localizer jacket following scoliosis surgery may be eligible for separate reimbursement.

Inclusion of a code in this policy does not imply reimbursement. Eligibility, benefits, limitations, exclusions, precertification/referral requirements, provider contracts, and Company policies apply. 
 
REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

The individual's medical record must reflect the medical necessity for the care provided. These medical records may include, but are not limited to: records from the professional provider's office, hospital, nursing home, home health agencies, therapies, and test reports.

The Company may conduct reviews and audits of services to our members, regardless of the participation status of the provider. All documentation is to be available to the Company upon request. Failure to produce the requested information may result in a denial for the service.

Guidelines

BENEFIT APPLICATION

Subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable benefit contract, cast and splint application reapplication, removal, and repair, as well associated supplies (listed in Attachment A of this policy) are covered under the medical benefits of the Company’s products.

BILLING GUIDELINES

Primary care providers (PCPs) who receive a monthly capitation are reimbursed above capitation for walking aids and casting and splinting supplies when provided in the office setting.

Description

Rigid immobilization refers to the process of holding a joint or bone in place with the use of a cast or splint. This is done to prevent an injured area from moving while it heals. The devices are firm (e.g., plaster, fiberglass) and not intended for self-removal.

Casts are generally used for the treatment of fractures, dislocations, and/or other musculoskeletal injuries. Splints are often used to immobilize a fractured or dislocated bone, or to maintain any part of the body in a fixed position.

Fracture care is the treatment of an open or closed fracture (broken bone) by performing a non-operative and/or operative technique. The non-operative technique is the treatment of a fracture typically with the use of a cast or splint and does not require surgery. While some bones can heal with the use of a cast or splint and do not require surgery, others may require a more invasive operative technique.

References

Company Benefit Contracts.

Coding

CPT Procedure Code Number(s)
See Attachment A.

ICD - 10 Procedure Code Number(s)
N/A

ICD - 10 Diagnosis Code Number(s)
N/A

HCPCS Level II Code Number(s)
See Attachment A.

Revenue Code Number(s)
N/A



Coding and Billing Requirements


Policy History

12/21/2020
12/21/2020
9/18/2024
00.10.15
Claim Payment Policy Bulletin
Commercial
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No