Medicare Benefits Schedule - Note TN.1.6

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are an alternative to standard percutaneous central venous catheter placement or surgically placed intravenous catheters where long-term venous access is required for ongoing patient therapy. 

Medicare benefits for PICC can be claimed under central vein catheterisation items 13318, 13319, 13815 and 22020. 

These items are for central vein catheterisation (where the tip of the catheter is positioned in a central vein) and cannot be used for venous catheters where the tip is positioned in a peripheral vein. 

Related Items: 13318 13815 22020

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CENTRAL VEIN CATHETERISATION - by open exposure in a patient under 12 years of age

(Anaes.)

Fee: $259.10 Benefit: 75% = $194.35 85% = $220.25

(See para TN.1.6 of explanatory notes to this Category)

CENTRAL VEIN CATHETERISATION by percutaneous or open exposure, not being a service to which item 13318 applies, when performed in association with the administration of anaesthesia

(4 basic units)

Fee: $90.20 Benefit: 75% = $67.65 85% = $76.70

(See para TN.1.6, TN.10.8 of explanatory notes to this Category)

Central vein catheterisation, including under ultrasound guidance where clinically appropriate, by percutaneous or open exposure other than a service to which item 13318 applies (Anaes.)

No separate ultrasound item is payable with this item.

(Anaes.)

Fee: $129.50 Benefit: 75% = $97.15 85% = $110.10

(See para TN.1.6, TN.1.10 of explanatory notes to this Category)