H5N8 Avian Influenza Vaccine: The American Medical Association (AMA) has updated the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code set to include new codes for vaccines protecting against the H5N8 strain of avian influenza.
This update follows a recent global outbreak of avian influenza, particularly the H5N1 strain, which has affected wild birds, poultry, dairy cows, and other mammals, including humans. The CDC reports 11 human cases in the US, with five confirmed as H5N1.
In response, the AMA introduced a provisional CPT code for the H5N8 Avian Influenza Vaccine candidates that have received emergency use authorization from the FDA. The new product code is:
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- 90695: H5N8 Influenza virus vaccine, derived from cell cultures, adjuvant for intramuscular use
The AMA advises that this CPT code should be used alongside an administration code to document the counseling of patients or caregivers, the administration of the vaccine, and the updating of medical records. Relevant administration codes include:
For children (through 18 years of age):
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- 90460: Immunization administration through 18 years of age via any route of administration, with counseling by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional; first or only component of each vaccine or toxoid administered
- 90461: Immunization administration through 18 years of age via any route of administration, with counseling by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional; each additional vaccine or toxoid component administered
For adults:
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- 90471: Immunization administration (includes percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections); 1 vaccine (single or combination vaccine/toxoid)
- 90472: Immunization administration (includes percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections); each additional vaccine (single or combination vaccine/toxoid)
This CPT code update aims to prepare EHR systems in the US for the potential FDA authorization of bird flu vaccines. The US government has already ordered over 4.8 million doses of a pre-pandemic cell-based vaccine from CSL Seqirus, well-matched to the current global strain. Additionally, the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) recently allocated $176 million to develop an mRNA-based vaccine for this bird flu outbreak.
The new CPT code is a vital preparatory step in response to the potential danger to humans from a highly infectious avian influenza disease,” said AMA President. “A CPT code that clinically distinguishes the avian influenza vaccine allows for data-driven tracking, reporting, and analysis that supports planning, preparedness, and allocation of vaccines in case a public health response is needed for avian flu prevention.”
Ensure Accurate Reimbursement: Why You Need CPT Coding Services:
CPT coding services are offered by Allzone specialize in translating medical services into the specific code language required by insurance companies for billing purposes. These codes, called CPT codes (Current Procedural Terminology), are essential for healthcare providers to receive reimbursement for the services they deliver.
Here’s a breakdown of CPT coding services:
- What it is: Assigning accurate CPT codes to medical services provided by healthcare professionals.
- Why it’s important: Ensures proper billing and reimbursement for medical services.
- Who uses it: Physicians, hospitals, outpatient facilities, and laboratories?
We are specializing in providing CPT coding services. Our employ certified medical coders who have the expertise to assign the most appropriate CPT code for a given service. This helps to ensure that claims are submitted accurately and that healthcare providers are reimbursed appropriately.