G178 – Catheter ablation therapy
OHIP Diagnostic & Therapeutic Procedures Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
G178 is for catheter ablation therapy as part of electrophysiologic pacing, mapping, and ablation procedures. This procedure is considered a major invasive procedure and is eligible for after-hours procedure premiums and the trauma premium under specific conditions. It can be billed with additional codes for left heart catheterization (Z422, Z424) when performed.
When to Use
- Use G178 for the actual delivery of radiofrequency or cryoablation energy to cardiac tissue during an electrophysiology study.
- Use G178 when performing complex ablation procedures (e.g., atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia) where mapping and pacing are integral components of the session.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing G178 without the required add-on codes Z422 or Z424 when transseptal access or mapping is performed, leading to lost revenue.
- Attempting to claim after-hours premiums (E409/E410) for elective procedures that were not delayed by an intervening surgical emergency.
- Failing to document the Injury Severity Score (ISS) in the medical record when attempting to claim the E420 trauma premium.
Billing Tips
- Always pair G178 with Z422 to capture the electrophysiological pacing and mapping component, as this is limited to one claim per sitting.
- If transseptal access is required for the ablation, ensure Z424 is billed; you may claim this up to a maximum of two times per procedure.
Effective: April 1, 2025
J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES
Procedure
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
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