A4736 Topical anesthetic, per gram
Also known as: topical anesthetic, numbing cream, surface anesthetic
A topical anesthetic agent (such as lidocaine or benzocaine) in cream, ointment, or liquid form supplied per gram weight for application to skin or mucous membranes.
In Plain Language
numbing cream for skin; pain-relieving ointment
Clinical Context
Used before procedures (venipuncture, cannulation, injections) to reduce pain. Particularly valuable in pediatric patients. Applied 15-30 minutes before procedure.
RVU Information
CPT A4736 does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. This is typical for supply, drug, and equipment codes — reimbursement is based on Average Sales Price (ASP), fee schedules, or payer contracts rather than the RVU system.
Billing & Documentation
HCPCS A-codes cover medical supplies, equipment, and transport services. Documentation must establish medical necessity and include a physician order. For durable medical equipment (DME), a Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) or detailed written order may be required.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code A4736?
CPT A4736 (Topical anesthetic, per gram) is a A Codes code. A topical anesthetic agent (such as lidocaine or benzocaine) in cream, ointment, or liquid form supplied per gram weight for application to skin or mucous membranes.
Does Medicare cover A4736?
Medicare coverage for A4736 depends on medical necessity and applicable Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs). Used before procedures (venipuncture, cannulation, injections) to reduce pain. Particularly valuable in pediatric patients. Applied 15-30 minutes before procedure. A physician order is typically required.
When is CPT A4736 used?
Used before procedures (venipuncture, cannulation, injections) to reduce pain. Particularly valuable in pediatric patients. Applied 15-30 minutes before procedure.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.