G286 – Thermal dilution studies
OHIP Diagnostic & Therapeutic Procedures Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
G286 is payable for thermal dilution studies when rendered in a cardiac catheter lab using a Swan-Ganz catheter. This is an add-on code claimed in addition to Z438. Note: - Cardiac catheterization procedures (Z439 to G288) include insertion of catheter (including cutdown and repair of vessels if rendered), catheter placement, contrast injection, imaging and interpretation. - When more than one procedure from the cardiac catheterization section (Z439 to G288, excluding G262 and G263) is performed in the same session, subsequent procedures are paid at 50% of their listed value.
When to Use
- Use G286 specifically when performing hemodynamic monitoring via thermal dilution using a Swan-Ganz catheter during a cardiac catheterization session.
- Claim G286 as an add-on procedure alongside the primary catheterization code Z438 to account for the specific diagnostic study performed.
Common Pitfalls
- Attempting to claim G286 on the same day as G296 will result in a rejection, as G296 is restricted and intended to cover all studies performed in the cath lab that day.
- Failing to apply the 50% payment reduction rule when G286 is performed alongside other cardiac catheterization procedures (Z439 to G288) in the same session.
Billing Tips
- Ensure G286 is billed in conjunction with Z438, as it is designed as an add-on code for thermal dilution studies within the cardiac catheterization framework.
Effective: April 1, 2025
J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES
Procedure
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
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