Billing code
Z590A — Paracentesis – diagnostic sample
Diagnostic paracentesis
Bill for abdominal paracentesis to obtain a diagnostic sample only.
Watch for: If fluid is drained therapeutically, bill Z591 instead; add E542 outside hospital.
| Provider | Specialist | Assistant | Anaesthetist | Non-anaesthetist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $31.30 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
- Code
- Z590A
- Description
- Paracentesis – diagnostic sample
- FHO+ basket
- Not in the FHO+ base rate basket (Schedule 2 or 2B).
- Effective date
- Apr 1, 2025
- Termination date
- No end date
Explanation
Updated October 26, 2026
Abdominal paracentesis to obtain a diagnostic sample only.
What it covers
Z590 is paracentesis (aspiration of the peritoneal cavity) to obtain a diagnostic sample (S34).
If fluid is drained therapeutically, bill Z591 instead; paracentesis with lavage for diagnosis is Z763 (S34).
Billing rules
- Add E542 when performed outside hospital (S34).
- Therapeutic drainage, with or without a sample, is Z591 (S34).
- Ultrasound guidance can be billed as J149, including by an ED physician (G11, A16).
- Surgical procedure: age premiums apply for patients under 16, from +10% (age 5–15) up to +30% (under 30 days) (GP64).
- Non-elective and done after hours: ED physicians billing H-codes add E412 (+20%, evenings/weekends/holidays) or E413 (+40%, 00:00–07:00); other physicians add E409 or E410 (GP104).
Often billed with
- E542 outside hospital (S34).
Related codes: Z591, Z763, E542, J149
Source: Schedule of Benefits (July 1, 2026), Digestive System Surgical Procedures, Abdomen, Peritoneum and Omentum, page S34.
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