What are the billing rules for Z296A?

Only when the endoscopy is the only operative procedure. When a listed nasal procedure (e.g. Z304, Z309, Z311, Z314–Z316) is done with a flexible endoscope, the listing gives the E839 add-on instead (P1, P4). Not payable with Z292 (direct laryngoscopy) for the same patient on the same day (P1, P7). Z codes are independent operative procedures (IOP), payable in addition to an assessment. If you made the decision to operate in the past 12 months, only a partial assessment (specialist) or minor assessment (GP) is payable before the IOP that day; if the decision is the same day, no other assessment before it is paid (GP4, SP4).

What is Z296A often billed with?

A243 specific assessment, A244 partial assessment or A245 consultation, within the IOP rules (GP4, SP4).

Why is Z296A rejected?

ADH: OHIP describes this as 'Cannot be billed together': Z296 with Z292 for the same patient on the same day (P1, P7).

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Billing code

Z296A — Flexible fiberoptic nasal endoscopy (sole procedure)

Q: What is OHIP billing code Z296A?

Flexible fiberoptic endoscopy of the upper airway through the nose, when it is the only operative procedure done.

Flexible nasal endoscopy

Bill for flexible fibreoptic endoscopy of the upper airway through the nose when it is the only operative procedure done.

Watch for: Not payable with Z292 the same day; with a listed nasal procedure, bill the E839 add-on instead.

Provider	Specialist	Assistant	Anaesthetist	Non-anaesthetist
$33.25	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00

Code: Z296A
Description: Flexible fiberoptic nasal endoscopy (sole procedure)
FHO+ basket: Not in the FHO+ base rate basket (Schedule 2 or 2B).
Effective date: Apr 1, 2026
Termination date: No end date

Explanation

Updated October 26, 2026

Flexible fiberoptic endoscopy of the upper airway through the nose, when it is the only operative procedure done.

What it covers

Z296 is fiberoptic endoscopy of the upper airway (nose) with a flexible endoscope, billed when it is the only operative procedure performed (P1). It is an independent operative procedure (IOP).

Endoscopy with a rigid endoscope, for diagnosis or to help biopsy or treat pathology in the posterior nasal cavity, hypopharynx or larynx, is Z299 (P1).

Billing rules

Only when the endoscopy is the only operative procedure. When a listed nasal procedure (e.g. Z304, Z309, Z311, Z314–Z316) is done with a flexible endoscope, the listing gives the E839 add-on instead (P1, P4).
Not payable with Z292 (direct laryngoscopy) for the same patient on the same day (P1, P7).
Z codes are independent operative procedures (IOP), payable in addition to an assessment. If you made the decision to operate in the past 12 months, only a partial assessment (specialist) or minor assessment (GP) is payable before the IOP that day; if the decision is the same day, no other assessment before it is paid (GP4, SP4).
Surgical procedures on children under 16 get the age premium (10–30% by age) (GP64).

Often billed with

A243 specific assessment, A244 partial assessment or A245 consultation, within the IOP rules (GP4, SP4).

Common rejections

ADH: OHIP describes this as 'Cannot be billed together': Z296 with Z292 for the same patient on the same day (P1, P7).

Related codes: Z299, E839, Z292, Z324, A243, A245

Source: Schedule of Benefits (July 1, 2026), Respiratory Surgical Procedures, Nose, page P1.

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