ASE has been successful in the approval of a new CPT code for 3-Dimensional imaging, an add on code for adult transesophageal echocardiograms and pediatric transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiograms. The new CPT code has a proposed valuation of 0.50 physician wRVUs and 1.17 practice expense RVUs for a total RVU of 1.67. ASE would like to ask your assistance in supporting the proper valuation of this code. CMS has requested copies of paid invoices for 3-Dimensional echo software and transthoracic echo and transesophageal echo probes. This is to substantiate to CMS that there are additional costs associated for these imaging tests; this additional data is needed so that hospitals and practices can be properly reimbursed. Without ASE providing these paid invoices, CMS is likely to go online for their assessment of equipment costs which are usually much lower than the actual cost labs incur.
This is a confidential process, and we are asking for you to block out your institution or practice name and location from the paid invoice. We will only share these invoices with CMS. Unfortunately, quotes are not accepted. Ideally, these paid invoices should be within the last 24 months, but any submission would be helpful.
ASE must submit the invoices to CMS by September 1, 2021, so we request this information no later than August 30, 2021. Please contact ASE’s VP of Health Policy and Member Relations, Irene Butler, with any questions and to email the invoices.