The sign language interpreter services code conversion will replace HCPCS Level III local codes, commonly referred to as local codes, with HIPAA-compliant HCPCS Level II national codes. This billing requirement for sign language interpreter services is mandated by HIPAA and is effective for claims with dates of service on or after January 1, 2019.
For claims with dates of service on or after January 1, 2019, the sign language interpreter services code conversion will be replacing HCPCS Level III local codes Z0324 and Z0326 with HCPCS Level II national code T1013 (sign language or oral interpretive services, per 15 minutes).
As of January 1, 2019, HCPCS Level III local codes Z0328 and Z0329 used to bill for sign language interpreter services will no longer be reimbursable.
Sign language interpreter services are a benefit to facilitate effective communication with deaf or hearing-impaired Medi-Cal recipients. Recipients are not eligible to receive sign language interpreter services in a health facility that is required by law to provide sign language interpreter services.
Providers are encouraged to watch for sign language interpreter service updates in the NewsFlash area of the Medi-Cal website and in the monthly Medi-Cal Update. Providers may complete the Medi-Cal Subscription Service (MCSS) Form to receive timely notifications related to sign language interpreter services.
For additional information, providers may:
Questions regarding the sign language interpreter services code conversion may be submitted via email to CAMMISCodeConversion@conduent.com.
California Children’s Services (CCS) and Genetically Handicapped Persons Program (GHPP) providers can now submit Service Authorization Requests (SARs) in an electronic format (eSAR) with attachments. Attachments must be in format of PDF, JPG or TIF. Attachments must be less than 15 megabytes (MB) in size, with the sum of all attachments being less than 150 MB. This feature aims to eliminate the paper SAR process for providers with internet connectivity.
To submit eSARs, providers must:
Then, select one of the available options to submit:
Registered providers and clearinghouses can complete and submit the eSAR requests on behalf of the providers and facilities in their network.
Paper SAR submissions remain an option for low-volume SAR providers or submitters who may have technical limitations or practical reasons to do so.
Providers interested in learning more about eSAR submissions should contact the CMS Net Help Desk at cmshelp@dhcs.ca.gov or 1-866-685-8449 for helpful guidance and additional information.
This information is reflected in the following provider manual(s):
Provider Manual(s) | Page(s) Updated |
Audiology and Hearing Aids Chronic Dialysis Clinics Clinics and Hospitals Durable Medical Equipment General Medicine Home Health Agencies/Home and Community-Based Services Inpatient Services Local Educational Agency Medical Transportation Obstetrics Orthotics and Prosthetics Pharmacy Psychological Services Rehabilitation Clinics Therapies Vision Care |
cal child sar (12); genetic (4) |
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