Billing for Ambulance Services: Understanding Line 23 on CMS-1500 Claim Form

When filling out a CMS-1500 claim form for ambulance services, in what line item should the zip code of the point of pickup be placed?

Final Answer:

When filling out a CMS-1500 claim form for ambulance services, the pick-up point's zip code is placed in Line 23 of the form.

Explanation: In the scenario where an ambulance service has been provided and the coder is working with a paper CMS-1500 claim form, the zip code of the point of pick-up would be positioned in Line 23. As a coder, remembering the information required on each line is vital, especially when dealing with emergency medical services. Line 23 specifically is reserved for a variety of information related to the ambulance pick-up such as zip code, type of residence, etc.

Addressing Geographic Specifics: Line 23 is where the zip code of the point of pick-up is recorded. This information is essential for insurance and billing purposes, as it helps identify the location of the emergency or medical service provided. Accurate zip code data is crucial for both claims processing and determining coverage eligibility.

Type of Residence: Line 23 can also accommodate information about the type of residence or location from which the patient was picked up. This additional detail can be important when distinguishing between different types of services or for assessing the urgency of the medical situation.