The New Evaluation and Management Codes - Focus on Consultations (Spring 1992)

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding this article helps readers interpret the early guidance that shaped consultation reporting under the revised E/M system. It is relevant for historical CPT research and for anyone comparing consultation policy concepts, documentation expectations, and setting-specific reporting distinctions.

Article Sections

1. General Consultation Guidelines

   Introduces the overall consultation framework in the new E/M code structure. Covers the broad documentation and communication concepts that apply across consultation settings.

2. Subcategories of Consultation

   Summarizes the main consultation categories addressed in the article. Provides a high-level overview of how the guidance is organized by setting and consult type.

3. Office or Other Outpatient Consultations

   Discusses consultation services delivered in office and other outpatient settings, including emergency department contexts. Addresses how these services are distinguished from follow-up visits and repeated requests for opinion.

4. Initial Inpatient Consultations

   Covers consultation services provided for hospital inpatients and nursing facility residents. Focuses on admission-based reporting structure and how multiple consultants are treated.

5. Follow-Up Inpatient Consultations

   Reviews consultative visits that continue or complete an initial consultation in inpatient or nursing facility settings. Also covers subsequent consultant involvement after treatment begins.

6. Confirmatory Consultations

   Explains the separate consultation category used when the consulting physician understands the opinion is being sought for confirmation. Notes that this subcategory may apply across settings and includes related mandated-service considerations.