P52.5 — Subarachnoid (nontraumatic) hemorrhage of newborn
ICD-10-CM
Prior Authorization
No Prior Auth Required
Code is covered without prior authorization (high confidence)
Documentation Required
- Medical records must include history and physical notes, laboratory results, and documentation of signs and symptoms that warrant the head/neck diagnostic imaging.
- Accurate HCPCS/CPT coding must be submitted to differentiate CT and MRI scans from other radiology services and to support coverage determinations.
- Documentation and supporting information must be available to Medicare upon request.
- Providers should check and apply Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) edits and applicable LCD guidance for correct code combinations before billing.
Key Coverage Criteria
- CT or MRI scans of the head or neck are covered when the medical record documents the scan is reasonable and necessary for diagnostic evaluation.
- Coverage requires documentation supporting clinical indication such as history and physical exam findings, laboratory results, and signs or symptoms that justify the diagnostic test.
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7 Active Policies
CIGNA-CPG038 — Spinal Ultrasound - (CPG038)
A57215 — Billing and Coding: MRI and CT Scans of the Head and Neck
AETNA-CPB-0628 — Spinal Ultrasound
ANTHEM-CG-LAB-20 — CG-LAB-20 Thyroid Testing
A57204 — Billing and Coding: MRI and CT Scans of the Head and Neck
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