R703 – Paracorporeal ventricular assist device
OHIP Radiology Code — CARDIOVASCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Insertion of a paracorporeal ventricular assist device. R703 is eligible for payment only for paracorporeal devices that have been inserted for 14 or more days. Claims for this service should only be submitted after the 14-day minimum insertion period has been met. This procedure is distinct from extracorporeal membrane oxygenator procedures, which should be billed as Z788. If a ventricular assist device is replaced, both the appropriate removal and insertion fee codes are eligible for payment.
When to Use
- Use R703 for the insertion of a paracorporeal ventricular assist device only after the device has been in situ for a minimum of 14 days.
- Use R703 for the initial insertion procedure, ensuring the 14-day threshold is met before submission, distinguishing it from extracorporeal membrane oxygenator procedures billed under Z788.
Common Pitfalls
- Submitting the claim for R703 prior to the 14-day post-insertion mark will result in automatic rejection.
- Confusing R703 with Z788; extracorporeal membrane oxygenator procedures are not eligible for R703 and must be billed as Z788.
Billing Tips
- When replacing a device, bill both the removal code and the insertion code (R703) to ensure full compensation for the surgical work performed.
Effective: April 1, 2025
Q. Cardiovascular Surgical Procedures
CARDIOVASCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Cardiovascular Surgical Procedures
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