An additional allowance is not paid for stress films or weight bearing x-ray studies when performed in conjunction with conventional x-ray studies of the same body area (e.g., spine, hip, knee, ankle). When both conventional x-ray studies of an extremity or joint and stress films or weight bearing x-ray studies are reported and billed separately, the charges are combined under the appropriate procedure code for the conventional x-ray study reported. When only stress films or weight bearing x-rays are performed, use the appropriate code for a limited x-ray of the anatomic area.

Procedure code 77071 represents manual application of stress performed by a physician for joint radiography, including the contralateral joint if indicated. Code 77071 must be reported with the appropriate procedure code for the conventional x-ray study performed. If code 77071 is reported without the appropriate conventional x-ray code, it will be denied. A participating, preferred, or network provider cannot bill the member for the denied service in this situation.

This medical policy may not apply to FEP. Medical policy is not an authorization, certification, explanation of benefits, or a contract. Benefits are determined by the Federal Employee Program.