AMA CPT® Assistant - 1999 Issue 6 (June)
Integumentary System Moh's Micrographic Surgery, 17304 (Q&A) (June 1999)
June 1999 page 10f Coding Consultation Integumentary System Moh's Micrographic Surgery, 17304 (Q&A) Question In the March 1999 CPT Assistant, a question appeared in the Coding Consultation section regarding the use of modifier -51 with the codes for Mohs' Micrographic Surgery (17304-17310). The AMA comment indicated that code 17304 is not exempt from the use of the -51 modifier. Medicare does not consider this code as subject to the multiple surgery reduction. Why is there a difference between CPT and Medicare guidelines? AMA Comment Often, third-party payor guidelines differ from CPT coding guidelines. Medicare payment policy allows for...
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Article Overview
This article is a short CPT Assistant coding consultation on Mohs micrographic surgery. It explains that the topic centers on how CPT guidance and Medicare policy may differ, with attention to modifier usage and a forthcoming CPT appendix update referenced by the AMA. The piece is relevant to coders, billers, compliance staff, and practices that report dermatologic surgical services.
Why This Topic Matters
Understanding differences between CPT editorial guidance and payer-specific payment policy helps reduce coding and reimbursement confusion for Mohs micrographic surgery claims. It also alerts readers to a potential change under consideration for a future CPT edition.
Article Sections
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Coding Consultation
Introduces the coding question being addressed and the general policy issue at stake for Mohs micrographic surgery.
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AMA Comment
Summarizes the AMA response discussing payer policy variation, modifier-related guidance, and a potential CPT appendix update.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames the difference between CPT guidance and Medicare payment policy
- What type of coding consultation issue is being discussed
- Which general policy areas are referenced for Mohs micrographic surgery reporting
- Why the article is relevant to those following CPT editorial updates
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Medical billers
- Compliance staff
- Dermatology practices
- Surgical coding professionals
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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