CommercialBilling CodesMedium impact
00.10.15e, Cast and Splint Applications and Associated Supplies
Independence Blue Cross·PA · Orthopedics, Emergency Medicine, Sports Medicine +2 more·Medical Policy
Effective date
Jun 29, 2026
We identified it
Jun 30, 2026
Summary
Independence Blue Cross removed walking aids from cast and splint billing guidelines, redirecting coverage questions to DME policy 05.00.21. The policy clarifies that cast/splint applications are NOT separately reimbursable during the postoperative period of fracture repair (payment included in global allowance), but MAY be reimbursable when performed by a different provider. General HCPCS codes A4570, A4580, and A4590 remain non-reimbursable; associated supplies listed in Attachment A may be eligible separately.
Action Required
By June 29, 2026: (1) Billing team must update claim submission logic to deny or route for review any cast/splint application claims (CPT codes in Attachment A) billed within the postoperative global period of fracture repair procedures—these are included in the global allowance and should not be separately reimbursed. (2) Configure system to allow separate reimbursement for cast/splint reapplication, removal, and repair ONLY when billed by a different professional provider or provider group than the original fracture repair provider. (3) Remove walking aids from casting/splinting supply billing; staff must direct members/providers to reference policy 05.00.21 (DME) for walking aid coverage. (4) Ensure Attachment A (specific eligible supply codes) is obtained and loaded into billing system to identify which associated supplies ARE eligible for separate reimbursement. (5) Update provider education materials and internal workflows to reflect these distinctions. Claims submitted without compliance may be denied or subject to audit.