Z342 – Limited bronchoscopy with placement of endobronchial blocker and/or double lumen tube
OHIP Psychiatric Code — RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Performs a limited bronchoscopy for the purpose of placing an endobronchial blocker and/or a double lumen tube. As a 'Z' code, this is considered an Independent Operative Procedure (IOP) with specific payment rules regarding pre-operative assessments (see ). The '#' prefix indicates that when performed in a hospital or ICHSC, the costs for premises, equipment, supplies, and personnel are covered by the facility's budget and not billed separately by the physician (see ).
When to Use
- Use Z342 when performing a limited bronchoscopy specifically to facilitate the placement of a double-lumen tube for one-lung ventilation during thoracic surgery.
- Use Z342 when a bronchoscopic assessment is required solely to position an endobronchial blocker to achieve lung isolation, provided no other diagnostic or therapeutic bronchoscopy (e.g., E837) is performed.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing Z342 alongside a full diagnostic bronchoscopy (e.g., E837) is a common error; if a diagnostic procedure is performed, only the higher-valued procedure is typically eligible for full payment.
- Attempting to bill a consultation or assessment on the same day as Z342 will trigger a rejection due to its status as an Independent Operative Procedure (IOP) under SP4 rules.
- Failing to recognize that Z342 is an IOP means that any pre-operative assessment rendered on the same day is considered included in the procedure fee and is not separately billable.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative note clearly documents the specific use of the bronchoscope for tube or blocker placement to justify the use of Z342 over general diagnostic codes.
- If the procedure is performed after hours, ensure the claim includes the appropriate E409 or E410 premium, as these are eligible for addition to the base procedural fee.
Effective: April 1, 2025
P. Respiratory Surgical Procedures
RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Respiratory Surgical Procedures
This is an Independent Operative Procedure ('Z' code). See for specific rules regarding payment of pre-operative assessments.
The '#' prefix indicates this service is subject to facility fee rules. When performed in a hospital or ICHSC, the costs for premises, equipment, supplies, and personnel are covered by the facility's budget and not billed separately by the physician. See .
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