ESRD services; CMS-related billing updates

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is sharing the following CMS-related billing updates that will take effect July 1, 2026 and apply to ESRD services.

• Discontinuation of the AX Modifier
  The AX modifier will be discontinued as a billing requirement. As a result, dialysis providers should no longer submit the AX modifier (item furnished in conjunction with dialysis services).
• Billing for Hemodiafiltration
  Effective July 1, 2026, ESRD facilities should bill hemodiafiltration services using Revenue code 0829 and HCPCS code 90999.

Services prior to July 1, 2026 should continue to be billed according to the current requirements in place at the time the service was rendered. Services on or after July 1, 2026 must follow the updated billing guidance described above.