Billing and Coding: Destruction of Malignant Skin Lesions

Destruction of malignant skin lesions is covered only when documentation demonstrates a skin malignancy (pathology report or clinical description), includes lesion size and location, and the service and diagnosis codes are supported in the medical record. Coverage is contingent on meeting LCD L33813, CMS payment policies, and any national coverage determinations; diagnosis-to-procedure mismatches and LCD frequency/diagnosis limits may cause automated denials, and non-covered services must be billed with the appropriate modifier.

"Destruction of a skin lesion is covered only when the medical record documents the lesion as malignant by a corresponding pathology report or a clinical description consistent with skin malignancy."

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