Blue Cross updating reimbursement policy for administering blood transfusions at inpatient facilities

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network will no longer reimburse separate claims for administering blood transfusions at inpatient facilities, effective Feb. 1, 2024.

This policy applies to all inpatient facility claims submitted for Blue Cross and BCN commercial members.

A blood transfusion is a routine medical procedure generally administered by nursing staff. Nursing services should be included in the general cost of the room where services are being given; therefore this service is considered ineligible for separate reimbursement.

When billing blood administration on a UB-04 for inpatient services, use the correct revenue code 0391.

Additional information

A blood transfusion is prescribed by a physician or a nonphysician practitioner for many reasons, including, but not limited to, surgery, injury and bleeding disorders.

Our updated reimbursement policy isn’t intended to affect decision-making for patient care, and health care providers are expected to apply medical judgment when caring for all members.