Proper Billing of Technical & Professional Components
NHIC has conducted audits that indicate Modifiers "TC" and "26" are not being utilized properly. Like many physician diagnostic or therapeutic services, cardiographs and echocardiography services may include both the technical and professional components. It is the responsibility of the rendering physician to bill only for the component actually rendered or purchased.
TC – The technical component is the equipment and technician performing the test. This is identified by adding modifier "TC" to the procedure code identified for the technical component charge.
Modifier "TC" should not be used if there is a specific code which describes a procedure that is 100 percent technical. For example, it would be inappropriate to use modifier TC in conjunction with 93005 (electrocardiogram, routine ECG with at least 12 lead
PC/26 – The professional component is the interpretation of the results of the test. When the professional component is reported separately the service may be identified by adding modifier 26.
There are some procedure codes that by definition mean professional component only and don't require modifier 26. For example, it would be inappropriate to use modifier 26 in conjunction with 93010 (electrocardiogram, routine ECG with at least 12 leads interpretation and reporting only) because it is 100 percent professional.
Medicare Part B contractors process claims for the professional