Medical Policy Revision: Lung Volume Reduction Surgery for Severe Emphysema

Effective January 27, 2015, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey will change the way we consider claims for lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) for certain members who have severe emphysema.

Based on the guidelines of our revised medical policy, Lung Volume Reduction Surgery for Severe Emphysema, on and after a service date of January 27, 2015, lung volume reduction surgery (including CPT® codes 32672 and 32491) included on claims for members ages 75 and older will be denied as an investigational service.

Review this revised policy in our online Medical Policy Manual.

Unless Horizon BCBSNJ gives written notice that all or part of the above changes have been cancelled or postponed, the changes will be applied to claims for dates of service on and after January 27, 2015.

CPT® is a registered mark of the American Medical Association.