Frequently Asked Questions: Breast Procedures
Q: Do the antibiotic and VTE measures apply to breast procedures?
A: Yes, there are breast procedures included in many of the antibiotic and VTE prophylaxis measures. Please consult the ACS-developed work flowsheets to find breast procedures included in these measures.
Q: Are 19120 and 19125 (biopsy codes) included in the measures?
A: No, these codes are not included in any PQRI measures.
Q: How do I report on the measures related to radiation therapy and hormone therapy for breast cancer patients?
A: The current breast cancer measures were developed by oncologists for oncologists without surgical input. The measures are not well-designed for surgeons to report. However, surgeons can report on the measures during a follow-up visit that is outside of the global billing period. For more information, please consult the ACS-developed work flowsheet for these measures.
Q: What forms of VTE prophylaxis comply with the VTE measure?
A: The following types of prophylaxis can be used to comply with the performance measure:
- Mechanical Prophylaxis
- Low Molecular Weight Heparin
- Low-Dose Unfractionated Heparin
- Adjusted-Dose Warfarin
- Fondaparinux
Because VTE risk is associated with patient factors in addition to procedural risk, the College encourages physicians to review current guidelines to make the appropriate choice for VTE prophylaxis.
Online July 2, 2007
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
PQRI
