Does K20.81 require prior authorization?

No, K20.81 does not require prior authorization (high confidence). Code is covered without prior authorization.

`K20.81` — Other esophagitis with bleeding

ICD-10-CM

No Prior Auth Required

Code is covered without prior authorization (high confidence)

Medical record documentation must demonstrate that the patient cannot tolerate oral bisphosphonates or that oral bisphosphonates are medically contraindicated (including documentation of severe esophagitis when applicable).
If inability to tolerate oral ibandronate is claimed, include appropriate intolerance/interaction codes (T50.995A-T50.995S, Y63.8, Z91.89, or Z92.89) in the documentation and claims as applicable.
For hypercalcemia of malignancy (E83.52), document the clinical rationale for ibandronate use and the specific related malignancy in the patient record.
For osteoporosis as a transplant complication, include the related transplant complication code plus T50.995A-T50.995S or Z87.19 to justify intravenous therapy.

Intravenous ibandronate sodium is reasonable and necessary only for patients for whom bisphosphonate therapy (including oral ibandronate) is medically indicated and who cannot tolerate oral therapy or have a medical contraindication to oral bisphosphonates.
Use for osteoporosis (including senile or other osteoporosis) is covered when oral bisphosphonate therapy is indicated but cannot be used due to intolerance or contraindication.
Ibandronate sodium may be used for management of hypercalcemia of malignancy when the medical record documents the rationale for use and the related malignancy.
Ibandronate sodium may be used for osteoporosis that is a complication of transplant when the claim includes the related complication-of-transplant code and documentation of inability to tolerate oral bisphosphonates.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is covered when it meets the reasonable and necessary requirements specified in Local Coverage Determination L33583.
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (diagnostic or therapeutic) is covered when determined reasonable and necessary per Local Coverage Determination L35350.

A52421 — Billing and Coding: Ibandronate Sodium

J06

L33394 — Drugs and Biologicals, Coverage of, for Label and Off-Label Uses

J06

L33583 — Diagnostic and Therapeutic Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

J09

A57063 — Billing and Coding: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

J09

Ask Verity about documentation requirements, denial risks, or coverage in your state.