What type of APC is assigned to non-pass-through drugs and biological agents?

The correct choice regarding the type of Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) assigned to non-pass-through drugs and biological agents is K. APCs are used in the outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS) to classify services that are paid based on a fixed payment amount for specific categories of services or items.

APC K specifically relates to non-pass-through drugs and biological agents that are bundled into the payment for outpatient hospital services. These items are not separately reimbursed because they are considered integral to the procedures or services provided. Instead, their costs are included in the overall payment for the outpatient encounter.

Understanding this classification is crucial for healthcare providers and billing professionals as it directly impacts reimbursement strategies and financial planning for outpatient services. Non-pass-through drugs and biological agents are intended to be used in conjunction with the primary services rendered, thereby simplifying the reimbursement process, as these costs are contained within the overall payment structure.