Code D1999
Unspecified Preventive Procedure
D1999 is a dental code described by the ADA as “unspecified preventive procedure – by report.” This is primarily used to keep documentation on additional personal protective equipment and report on usage costs to dental practices. The code was created on account of enhanced safety measures in the wake of COVID-19 and states the commitment of the ADA toward protecting the safety of the patient, dentist, and dental team members.
Billing and Documentation Requirements:
- Standard Office Policy for PPE Documentation: It is recommended that dentists implement a standard office policy for the documentation of the additional use of PPE. The policy has to be followed with every patient so that complete information is captured uniformly. This aims at integrity and consistency of reporting while using and expanding PPE.
- Documentation Methodology for Standard Fees: A clear methodology should be developed to allow for a standard fee for PPE applied. This included developing a methodological approach to the documentation regarding the type and cost of PPEs used for the patient served. Practices should ensure that they create fees that are both equitable and applied fairly, in adherence to the overall strategy for billing.
- Patient Record Note: A note, as detailed as possible, should be kept in the record of each patient regarding the specifics of PPE used during his or her visit. Such a note should specifically spell out what PPE was used and why it was used. If there are different types used, which may affect costs, those would need to be addressed specifically within the record of the patient. This will ensure that all the patients are aware of all the costs they will incur for the visit and help in keeping accurate records.
- Narrative for CDT Codes: A narrative must be present for any CDT codes with that type of nomenclature and read accordingly based on the use of D1999 and the need for the expenses relative to PPE. The narrative must be short and to the point, with character counts not to exceed 80 when recorded in the remarks section of the 2019 ADA Dental Claim Form. This guarantees that the description is both short and to the point to make communications very clear with insurance providers.
- Reporting D1999 on a Per-Visit/Claim Basis: The D1999 code is appropriate when PPE was used during each single visit and should be billed for on both per-visit and per-claim bases to recover the expenditure related to PPE in each case. This assures maximum utilization of PPE for billing purposes. It further helps to keep the record of PPE-related expenses, systematically managed and controlled.
ADA’s Commitment to Safety:
The introduction and implementation of the D1999 code reiterate the ADA’s continued commitment to the safety and well-being of all persons concerned with dental care. It has been drafted with the protection of patients, dentists, and dental team members in view, which outlines its commitment to maintaining a high level of care against challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Note on Interim Guidance:
This is based on interim guidance just released by the ADA concerning the use of COVID-19-related PPE. The guidelines follow recommendations from the CDC and are designed to arm dental practices with tools and protocols for moving forward with the use of PPE during the pandemic. Following these guidelines shall also foster an environment where dental practices can continue to deliver safe and effective care while navigating the financial burdens associated with PPE requirements.
This therefore means that D1999 is considered an important code for documentation and billing additional personal protective equipment used in the dental setting. Following the requirements of billing and documentation noted herein allows dental practices to remain transparent with fair billing practices while ensuring, for the patient, the safest care possible.
