Coding and payment for immunizations.
To maximize reimbursement rates for services related to immunization delivery, pediatricians must develop a best-practice five step action plan for providing immunizations in practice. These include: Implementing optimal coding practices for immunization administration and vaccine products; Capturing the work of associated evaluation and management services with coding; Supporting CPT coding with appropriate ICD-9-CM diagnostic coding links; Incorporating an immunization coding menu, including CPT and ICD-9-CM codes discussed in this article, into the standard practice encounter form; and Aggressively contracting with payers for adequate, flexible payment for immunization services. With knowledge of immunization CPT and ICD-9-CM coding, as well as coding for association E/M visits, the pediatrican is well prepared to deliver immunizations in the medical home.