Modifiers -58, -78 and -79 / Which one you should you use

Why This Topic Matters

Modifier selection during the global period can affect claim processing, payment, and whether a new global period begins. The article helps readers understand the broader policy and documentation context behind common postoperative modifier questions.

Article Sections

1. Overview

   Introduces the topic of return visits during the global surgical period and frames the discussion around three commonly compared modifiers.

2. Modifier 78

   Discusses postoperative return-to-room scenarios and the general concepts associated with this modifier, including how the article contrasts planned and unplanned follow-up care.

3. Example and related coding note

   Provides a clinical illustration and mentions how a procedure may be reported when a more specific code is not available.

4. 78 vs. 58

   Compares two postoperative modifier scenarios and describes the article’s broad distinction between planned follow-up procedures and return visits tied to earlier surgery.

5. Payment differences between 78 and 58

   Summarizes the article’s discussion of how these modifiers relate to fee payment and the start or continuation of a global period.

6. 78 vs. 79

   Explains why these modifiers are sometimes confused and addresses the article’s comparison of CPT and Medicare approaches to postoperative services.

7. Medicare guidance

   Cites Medicare manual guidance on postoperative services and the broader handling of additional care during the surgical package.