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Network News - 3rd Quarter 2019
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana·LA · ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat), Radiology·Provider News
Effective date
Nov 1, 2019
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana implemented new multiple-service reductions for nucleic acid probe procedures and updated bundled CPT codes for sinus surgeries. Nucleic acid probes will have reduced payments for multiple units (starting at 50% for third unit), and certain sinus procedure codes can no longer be billed together.
Action Required
By November 1, 2019: Billing team must update system to apply multiple-service reductions for nucleic acid probe codes 87471-87801, 0068U, and 0096U-0100U (100% for first two units, 50% for third, 25% for fourth, 5% for fifth+). Stop billing CPT 31255 with codes 31276, 31287, 31288. Stop billing 31296 and 31297 together. Use new bundled codes 31253, 31257, 31259, 31298 for sinus procedures. Update encounter forms and train providers on proper bilateral coding with modifiers.