Voice functional limitation, discharge status at discharge from therapy or to end reporting
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Voice Functional Limitation, Discharge Status at Discharge from Therapy or to End Reporting (G9173)
Common Name(s): Voice therapy discharge assessment Technical/Medical Term: G9173 assessment
Summary
The Voice Functional Limitation procedure, G9173, is an assessment conducted when a patient is being discharged from voice therapy or when it is necessary to end reporting. It evaluates the patient's voice function to determine their progress and current status.
Purpose
Medical Conditions: This procedure addresses conditions such as vocal cord dysfunction, voice fatigue, hoarseness, and other voice impairments. Goals: The main goals are to measure the degree of improvement in voice function and to document the patient's voice status at the end of therapy.
Indications
Symptoms/Conditions: Persistent hoarseness, voice strain, difficulty in speaking, and other voice abnormalities. Patient Criteria: Patients who have undergone a course of voice therapy for any voice impairments or dysfunctions.
Preparation
Pre-Procedure Instructions: No specific preparations are usually required, but patients should continue their regular voice therapy exercises. Diagnostic Tests: Prior voice assessments and therapy history may be reviewed.
Procedure Description
Steps:
- The healthcare professional evaluates the patient's voice using standardized tools and metrics.
- The patient's voice is assessed for parameters like pitch, volume, quality, and endurance.
- Documentation of findings and comparison with previous assessments to ascertain improvements or persistent issues. Tools: Voice analysis software, assessment forms, voice recording devices. Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable.
Duration
Typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Setting
This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized voice therapy center.
Personnel
Healthcare professionals involved:
- Speech-language pathologists
- Voice therapists
Risks and Complications
Common Risks: Minimal; generally safe with no significant risks. Rare Risks: There might be slight discomfort or fatigue if the patient has to speak for extended periods during assessment.
Benefits
Expected Benefits: Enhanced understanding of vocal improvement, tailored recommendations for any further therapy if needed. Timeline: Immediate insights as the assessment is conducted.
Recovery
Post-Procedure Care: No specific care required; continue with recommended voice care routines. Recovery Time: Immediate; no recovery period needed. Restrictions/Follow-Up: Follow-up assessments or continued voice therapy sessions if further improvement is needed.
Alternatives
Other Options: Further detailed voice function tests using more advanced equipment, continuing voice therapy without formal discharge assessment. Comparison: Other options might provide more in-depth analysis but may be more time-consuming or expensive.
Patient Experience
During Procedure: Patients might experience minor fatigue or discomfort from prolonged speaking. After Procedure: No significant discomfort; patients return to normal activities immediately. Pain Management: Not required as the procedure is non-invasive.
Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment and care for your specific condition.