Are you getting paid for the work you do? In this episode of the BackTable Podcast, interventional radiology coding expert Dr. David Zielske joins host Dr. Ally Baheti to share practical tips for billing and coding in interventional radiology, focusing on accurate, efficient, and compliant revenue capture.

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SYNPOSIS

Dr. Zielske shares his path to becoming a coding expert, highlighting why precise documentation is essential to accurate medical billing. Drawing from personal experience, he breaks down the most common coding pitfalls physicians face and how to avoid them. He highlights the importance of early training in coding and billing during residency and fellowship, reviews key coding updates effective January 2026, and offers guidance on modifier usage.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction
01:34 - The Importance of Accurate Coding and Documentation
04:03 - Common Coding Errors and Compliance Issues
07:09 - Detailed Coding Guidelines and Best Practices
26:20 - Modifiers and Their Proper Use
33:53 - Interventional Radiology vs Diagnostic Radiology
35:18 - Discussing ENM Billing and Procedural Focus
35:45 - Commonly Missed Codes in Dialysis Circuit Interventions
37:04 - Balloon Fibrin Sheath Disruption and Thrombectomy
37:51 - Importance of Accurate Documentation for Vascular Access
40:55 - Moderate Sedation and Ultrasound Guidance
42:33 - Selective Imaging and Urinary Access Coding
44:48 - Ablations and Biopsies: Guidance and Coding
46:53 - Drainages and Intravascular Lithotripsy
50:19 - 2026 Coding Changes and Physician Documentation
01:00:29 - Resources and Education for Physicians