G8417 - Documentation that BMI is above normal range with follow-up plan recorded

Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System

Last updated: 10/30/2025

What is a HCPCS Code?

HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) codes are used to identify medical procedures, supplies, and services for billing purposes. These codes help standardize how healthcare services are reported and billed across different providers and insurance companies.

Detailed Description

This code indicates that a healthcare provider has calculated and documented that a patient's Body Mass Index (BMI) is above normal parameters (typically meaning overweight or obese range) and has also documented a specific follow-up plan to address this finding. BMI is a measurement that uses height and weight to estimate body fat and assess weight categories. This code represents the administrative tracking of proper documentation practices rather than a specific medical procedure or treatment.

Additional Information

This is a documentation and quality reporting code rather than a billable service code. It tracks whether proper clinical documentation standards are being met for patients with elevated BMI measurements.

Category

Quality Reporting/Documentation

Medical Specialty

Primary Care/Preventive Medicine

Expected Costs

Your actual cost will depend on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.

What's Required Before This

  • BMI calculation
  • Clinical assessment
  • Documentation of follow-up plan

What to Expect After

  • Implementation of documented follow-up plan
  • Monitoring of weight management progress
  • Potential referrals as indicated in follow-up plan

Why Understanding This Code Matters

On Your Medical Bill

This code appears on your medical bills to identify the specific service, procedure, drug, or medical diagnosis you received. Understanding what it means helps you verify you're being charged correctly and know what to expect.

For Your Health

Knowing what this code represents helps you understand your treatment plan, ask better questions during appointments, and track your healthcare journey more effectively.

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