‘Floor time’ allowable for inpatient E/M

Why This Topic Matters

Inpatient E/M coding often depends on how physician time is counted and documented. Understanding the general framework for floor time and related counseling/coordination of care concepts helps coders and clinicians assess whether documentation supports the level of service reported.

Article Sections

1. Floor time in inpatient E/M

   Introduces the concept of floor time in the hospital setting and places it in the context of service time for inpatient evaluation and management. It also references CMS and CPT guidance at a broad level.

2. Counseling and coordination of care

   Discusses how counseling and coordination of care relate to time-based reporting in the inpatient setting. The section focuses on general considerations for how time may affect the reported level of service.

3. Focus on care plan in family discussions

   Addresses family discussions in the context of inpatient counseling and coordination of care. It highlights documentation themes for conversations involving caregivers and discharge planning.