A6196 Alginate dressing <=16 square in
Also known as: alginate dressing, calcium alginate pad
Alginate wound dressing measuring 16 square inches or less, absorbs exudate and promotes hemostasis.
In Plain Language
algae-based wound pad
Clinical Context
Applied to heavily exudative, partial or full-thickness wounds. The alginate fibers absorb up to 20 times their weight in fluid, maintaining moist healing environment.
RVU Information
CPT A6196 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 A6196?
CPT A6196 (Alginate dressing <=16 square in) is a A Codes code. Alginate wound dressing measuring 16 square inches or less, absorbs exudate and promotes hemostasis.
Does Medicare cover A6196?
Medicare coverage for A6196 depends on medical necessity and applicable Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs). Applied to heavily exudative, partial or full-thickness wounds. The alginate fibers absorb up to 20 times their weight in fluid, maintaining moist healing environment. A physician order is typically required.
When is CPT A6196 used?
Applied to heavily exudative, partial or full-thickness wounds. The alginate fibers absorb up to 20 times their weight in fluid, maintaining moist healing environment.
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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.