How long must an IV infusion last to be billed as an infusion instead of an injection?

An intravenous (IV) infusion must last more than 15 minutes to qualify for billing as an infusion rather than as a simple injection. This definition is crucial for healthcare providers and billing specialists, as it impacts revenue coding and reimbursement processes significantly.

When the duration of the infusion exceeds 15 minutes, it indicates a continuous delivery of medication or fluids, which requires different billing codes compared to a straightforward injection, which typically takes less time. This standard helps ensure appropriate classification of services and corresponds with coding guidelines set by entities such as the American Medical Association (AMA) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Understanding the duration that differentiates infusions from injections is essential for compliance with billing regulations, ensuring that healthcare facilities receive proper reimbursement for the services provided.