Modifier 24 / A checklist for using modifier 24 correctly

Why This Topic Matters

Postoperative E/M claims are often reviewed closely, and correct use of modifier 24 depends on understanding global periods, payer policy, and supporting documentation. Misapplication can lead to denials, compliance risk, or delayed payment.

Article Sections

1. Post-op period

   Introduces the need to identify the postoperative period associated with a surgery and notes that payer-specific global period policies may differ. It references Medicare sources used to review postoperative periods.

2. Unrelated E/M service

   Explains the article’s general approach for assessing whether an E/M visit is unrelated to the prior procedure. It discusses the relationship between the visit reason and the surgery at a broad level.

3. Supporting your claim

   Summarizes the article’s discussion of documentation support for an unrelated postoperative E/M service. It also addresses the role of diagnosis information when reviewing the claim.