72148 Lumbar spine MRI Medicare reimbursement rates in Idaho

This MRI evaluates the lumbar vertebrae, discs, spinal canal, conus and cauda equina, and neural foramina without administering contrast. It can assess persistent low back pain with radicular symptoms, suspected disc herniation or stenosis, and nerve root compression; it may also help with preoperative planning. Primary care, orthopedic, spine surgery, neurology, and pain management clinicians order the study. MRI technologists acquire the images in hospital outpatient departments, imaging centers, or physician offices, and a radiologist typically interprets them.

Report 72148 for a lumbar MRI acquired without contrast; when both noncontrast and post-contrast lumbar images are acquired, report 72158 instead of separate codes. The order, imaging protocol, contrast administration record, and signed interpretation should support the lumbar region and noncontrast technique. Modifier 26 identifies interpretation alone; modifier TC identifies equipment and staff services. Report the global service without either modifier when the same billing entity provides both portions. For multiple eligible diagnostic imaging studies furnished to the same patient on the same day, Medicare’s multiple procedure reduction affects both professional and technical components of the lower-valued service.