EC Coding & Classification Systems 3

Question 1

The HCPCS Level II code set is used in electrolysis billing primarily to classify:

Accepted Answer

Supplies, devices, and non-physician services not in CPT

Answer

HCPCS Level II codes cover supplies, equipment, and non-physician services that fall outside the CPT code set.

Question 2

When classifying electrolysis treatment modalities, 'thermolysis' is distinguished by its use of:

Accepted Answer

Alternating high-frequency current to generate heat

Answer

Thermolysis (short-wave diathermy) uses high-frequency alternating current that produces heat to destroy the hair follicle.

Question 3

A treatment progress note that classifies hair density as 'heavy' typically corresponds to approximately how many hairs per square centimeter?

Accepted Answer

More than 20

Answer

Heavy hair density is generally classified as more than 20 hairs per square centimeter in professional electrolysis assessment tools.

Question 4

Which modifier is appended to CPT 17380 to indicate the service was performed bilaterally on symmetric areas in the same session?

Accepted Answer

-50

Answer

Modifier -50 indicates a bilateral procedure performed during the same operative session on symmetrical body sites.

Question 5

In electrolysis classification systems, pseudofolliculitis barbae (ICD-10 L73.1) is relevant because electrolysis is sometimes used to treat it by:

Accepted Answer

Permanently removing the follicles causing chronic ingrown hairs

Answer

Electrolysis permanently destroys the follicles responsible for producing the hairs that cause pseudofolliculitis barbae (razor bumps).

(EC) Electrolysis Certification Practice Test