Proper use of drug wastage modifiers (JW & JZ)

Healthcare providers are reminded of the correct application of HCPCS modifiers JW and JZ, which are exclusively for reporting drug wastage from single-dose container drugs.

Appropriate Use:

• Modifier JW: Report only the discarded amount of a drug, on a separate claim line from the administered dose.
• Modifier JZ: Used when no drug wastage occurs.

Do Not Use JW or JZ:

• On non-drug codes – these modifiers are not valid for procedures or services unrelated to drug administration.
• When reporting wastage equal to or greater than the smallest vial size available – this is not compliant with CMS policy.

Common Drug Code Ranges:

• 90281–90399
• A2019–A2021
• C2616
• J0120–J9999
• S4989–S4995, S5000, S5001

Please ensure accurate billing to maintain compliance and avoid claim denials.