Retired - HCPCS Codes K1018 and K1019 - Correct Coding

Joint DME MAC Article

Effective for dates of service on or after April 1, 2021, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services created two new HCPCS codes K1018 and K1019:

K1018 - EXTERNAL UPPER LIMB TREMOR STIMULATOR OF THE PERIPHERAL NERVES OF THE WRIST

K1019 - MONTHLY SUPPLIES FOR USE OF DEVICE CODED AT K1018

Code K1018 describes devices that stimulate peripheral nerves to treat essential tremor. The devices and associated supplies are limb-specific (i.e., right or left upper extremity); consequently, the RT (RIGHT) and LT (LEFT) modifiers must be used when billing codes K1018 and K1019. As a reminder, when billing both the RT and LT modifiers on the same claim, separate claim lines must be used.

For code K1018, the use of the RT or LT modifiers is in addition the use of the NU (NEW), UE (USED) or RR (RENTAL) modifiers, as applicable. Modifiers NU, UE and RR are not required for code K1019.

The requirements for proper modifier use with codes K1018 and K1019 are effective for claims with dates of service on or after February 1, 2022.

For questions about correct coding, contact the Pricing, Data Analysis and Coding (PDAC) HCPCS Helpline at (877) 735-1326 during the hours of 9:30 am to 5:00 pm ET, Monday through Friday. You may also visit the PDAC website to chat with a representative, or select the Contact Us button at the top of the PDAC website for email, FAX or postal mail information.