HCPCS Code S9470 – Description and Billing

Code Description

HCPCS code S9470 is described as “nutritional counseling, dietitian visit.”

Understanding Code S9470

S9470 is the original nutrition counseling procedure code as it existed before the Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) codes, 97802 and 97803, were introduced. Now that the MNT codes have been around, the S9470 code is used less commonly. 

S9470 is Not Time Based

Note that while CPT codes 97802 and 97803 are time-based, S9470 is not. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) has very explicitly stated this in their guide to credentialing and billing. They recommend clarifying with the payer what the conditions are for the use of this code.

Some dietitians have reported that they have been paid for multiple units of this code at one visit. However, since it is not a time-based code, it should only ever be billed for 1 unit a visit, no matter the length of time spent with the patient. 

Coverage for HCPCS Code S9470

Medicare does not reimburse for HCPCS code S9470. It is covered by some private plans but not all. 

References:

RDN’s Complete Guide to Credentialing and Billing: The Private Payer Market

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