After more than a decade of fighting, the primary roadblock to widespread acceptance of multi-layer compression systems has been taken down. The AMA has created a new Category I CPT^® code that describes the application of the numerous multi-layer compression systems available on the market today. CPT code 29581 – “Application of multi-layer venous wound compression system, below the knee.” becomes effective on January 1, 2010.

In addition to the publication of the CPT code, CMS recently released the Outpatient Prospective Payment final rule (CMS-1414-FC). Look for me to discuss this in more detail in the coming weeks. In the final rule CPT code 29581 has been assigned to the APC payment group 0058 which has a 2010 payment rate of $71.03 and a status indicator of S. The S indicator is important because it means that the service is significant and not discounted for multiples. So, unlike a debridement where you have diminishing returns for debriding multiple ulcers, the application of the second compression system will not result in reduced payment.