E/M coding: Sweeping E/M code, documentation changes emerge ahead of 2021 start date

Why This Topic Matters

The changes described affect how common office visits are documented and selected, which can influence compliance, workflow, and reimbursement for many practices. Early understanding helps organizations prepare documentation processes, staff training, and time-tracking practices before the new rules take effect.

Article Sections

1. Overview of the upcoming E/M changes

   Introduces the planned shift in office visit reporting and the source of the updated guidance. Summarizes the broader context for the 2021 changes.

2. Slimmed-down code descriptions

   Discusses the planned restructuring of office visit code descriptors and the removal of one code from the new-patient office visit set. Compares the existing approach with the revised framework.

3. Understand time-based reporting

   Explains the revised approach to counting time for office visit selection and the general categories of work that may be included. Notes how the time-based framework may affect different practice types.

4. Map out MDM

   Reviews the updated medical decision-making framework at a high level and how it differs from older documentation concepts. Describes the broader elements that shape code selection under the revised guidance.