X-ray exam of collar bone
CPT code 73000 covers a basic X-ray examination of the collar bone (clavicle), typically performed to evaluate fractures, dislocations, or bone abnormalities after injury or trauma.
This calculator gives a typical-case estimate using standard Medicare modifier rules. Actual payment depends on payer policies, documentation, code-specific CMS status indicators, and locality. Verify before billing.
RVU breakdown
Conversion factor: 32.3465 · Source: CMS MPFS RVU25A · Confidence: High
NCCI bundling edits
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Billing tips
Always append RT or LT modifier to specify laterality, as most payers require anatomical designation for bilateral structures
Impact: Prevents denials for missing laterality; avoids 15-30 day claim resubmission delays
Verify whether you're billing global (no modifier), professional (26), or technical (TC) component based on your practice arrangement
Impact: Component billing errors can result in 50-80% underpayment or overpayment depending on practice setting
Document minimum of two views in the radiology report; single-view studies may be denied or downcoded to unlisted procedure
Impact: Ensures full $31.70 reimbursement versus potential denial requiring appeal
For trauma cases, link to appropriate ICD-10 codes (S42.0- fracture series) to establish medical necessity
Impact: Reduces denial rate by 25-40% compared to vague or unspecified diagnosis codes
Do not bill 73000 with comprehensive shoulder X-rays (73030); 73030 already includes clavicle visualization
Impact: Prevents bundling denials and potential audit flags for unbundling violations
When performing bilateral clavicle X-rays, bill 73000-RT and 73000-LT separately rather than using modifier 50
Impact: Some payers reimburse bilateral at 150% ($47.55 total) versus full payment for each side ($63.40 total)
Common denials
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