Consults aren't shared visits

Why This Topic Matters

The article matters because it addresses a Medicare policy clarification that affects how consultation services may be reported when physicians and non-physician practitioners both participate. It also highlights documentation and setting-based considerations that can affect compliance in a range of E/M workflows.

Article Sections

1. Medicare policy update on consultations and split/shared E/M visits

   This section summarizes the recent Medicare language added to the Internet-Only Manual and the related transmittal. It introduces the broader policy context for consultation services and split/shared E/M billing.

2. Documentation and request specificity for consultation services

   This section discusses how consultation requests should be documented and why specificity matters when services are requested for a person or group. It also addresses how those requests may be reflected in the medical record.

3. SNF and NF setting updates

   This section notes related Medicare revisions affecting skilled nursing facility and nursing facility settings. It places those changes in the context of split/shared E/M services and applicable place-of-service limitations.