Avoid duplicating time if you opt to report split/shared office visits in 2021

Why This Topic Matters

Correctly handling shared visit time affects office E/M code selection and helps practices avoid overstating time when documenting patient care.

Article Sections

1. Time-based E/M office visit reporting

   Introduces office E/M reporting by time for 2021 and the types of activities discussed in connection with time counting.

2. Split/shared visit time counting

   Explains how time is handled when a physician and a non-physician practitioner share a visit and notes the distinction between separate and jointly spent time.

3. Scenario and time-based code comparison

   Presents a worked scenario and a reference chart comparing office visit code time ranges for new and established patient services.

4. Practice considerations

   Discusses broader practice-level considerations for evaluating whether time-based coding is appropriate and references related educational material.