Introduction
Medical billing requires accurate coding to distinguish between different components of a medical service. TC Modifier (Technical Component) is used to bill for the technical portion of a diagnostic test, separating it from the professional interpretation.
This article explains TC Modifier, its uses, a real-world scenario, solutions, and important notes to consider when applying it correctly.
What is TC Modifier?
Modifier TC – Technical Component is used when billing for the technical portion of a diagnostic test or procedure, excluding the professional interpretation.
Why is TC Modifier Important?
Certain procedures, such as X-rays, MRIs, and lab tests, have two parts:
- Technical Component (TC) – Includes the use of equipment, supplies, and technician services.
- Professional Component (Modifier 26) – Covers the physician’s interpretation of the test results.
Using Modifier TC ensures that the facility or provider is reimbursed only for the technical service, while the interpreting physician bills separately using Modifier 26.
Example of CPT Code with TC Modifier:
A patient undergoes a chest X-ray (CPT 71045) at a hospital.
- The hospital provides the X-ray machine and technician.
- A radiologist at another location interprets the X-ray results.
Correct Billing:
➡ 71045-TC – The hospital bills for the technical component.
➡ 71045-26 – The radiologist bills separately for the professional interpretation.
When to Use TC Modifier?
Modifier TC should be applied when:
✅ A facility owns the equipment and provides the test without the physician’s interpretation.
✅ The procedure involves both technical and professional components, and only the technical part is being billed.
✅ A physician does not perform the interpretation, but the service was provided at an imaging center, hospital, or laboratory.
Common Uses of TC Modifier:
- Radiology (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds).
- Pathology & Laboratory (biopsy slides, blood tests).
- Cardiology (EKGs, stress tests).
- Neurology (EEGs, EMGs).
Scenario Example for TC Modifier
Scenario:
A patient visits an imaging center for a pelvic ultrasound (CPT 76856).
- The imaging center owns the ultrasound machine and has a technician perform the scan.
- The radiologist at a separate hospital interprets the ultrasound and provides a report.
Correct Billing:
➡ 76856-TC – The imaging center bills for the use of the ultrasound equipment and technician’s work.
➡ 76856-26 – The radiologist separately bills for the interpretation of the ultrasound.
Without Modifier TC, the claim may be denied if the payer assumes that both the technical and professional components were included in a single bill.
Solutions & Best Practices for Using TC Modifier
1. Ensure the Procedure is Eligible for TC and 26 Modifiers
- Modifier TC is only for services with separate technical and professional components.
- Do not use TC for services that are inherently technical or global (already include both components).
2. Confirm Who Owns the Equipment
- Modifier TC should be used when the provider does not own the equipment but performs the technical portion of the service.
- If the same provider performs both the technical and professional services, bill the procedure globally (without a modifier).
3. Check Payer Requirements Before Billing
- Some insurance companies have specific rules about billing with Modifier TC.
- Medicare and private insurers may require documentation showing that the technical and professional services were performed separately.
4. Avoid Common Billing Mistakes
- Do not add TC to services that do not require professional interpretation.
- Do not bill TC if the provider also performs the professional component.
- Ensure documentation supports the separation of technical and professional services.
Important Notes on TC Modifier
⚠Only for technical services – Do not use Modifier TC if the provider also performs the professional interpretation.
⚠Not for evaluation and management (E/M) services – Modifier TC applies only to diagnostic and imaging procedures, not office visits or treatments.
⚠Global services do not require TC – If a provider owns the equipment and performs the interpretation, the procedure should be billed without TC or 26.
⚠Improper use may lead to claim denials – Always ensure Modifier TC is necessary to avoid billing errors and audits.
Conclusion
TC Modifier plays a vital role in accurate medical billing by ensuring that facilities and imaging centers are reimbursed for the technical component of diagnostic procedures. Proper use of this modifier helps separate the technical and professional services, preventing claim denials and ensuring compliance. By following best practices and verifying payer guidelines, healthcare providers can maximize reimbursements while maintaining accuracy in medical coding.