decisionhealth Newsletters, Coder Pink Sheets - 2008 Issue 9 (September)
Tips for using non-face-to-face phone call codes
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Article Overview
This article explains the scope of CPT non-face-to-face physician telephone services and discusses how these services were positioned in CPT 2008. It is aimed at physicians, coders, billing staff, and practice managers who need a high-level understanding of the topic, including coverage concerns, related CMS commentary, and general guidance referenced from CPT Assistant and professional organization statements.
Why This Topic Matters
Telephone-based encounters can affect how practices document and bill patient communication, especially when payer coverage differs from CPT recognition. Understanding the article helps readers determine whether they need guidance on non-face-to-face physician services, Medicare coverage status, and general compliance considerations.
Article Sections
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Overview of non-face-to-face physician services
Introduces the topic of physician telephone services and the broader role of communication technology in practice operations. Describes the creation of a CPT section focused on non-face-to-face services.
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Code background and coverage context
Summarizes the introduction of new CPT telephone E/M services and the relationship to earlier deleted phone call codes. Notes the Medicare coverage discussion and CMS status language in general terms.
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Billing tips for 99441-99443
Reviews general payer and reporting considerations for the telephone E/M services discussed in the article. Covers broad timing, relationship, and linkage issues referenced by the source without giving code-selection instructions.
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Official resources
Lists reference sources cited by the article, including federal register material and a professional association statement.
What You Will Learn
- The general purpose of CPT non-face-to-face physician telephone services
- How the article frames the transition from older phone call codes to newer CPT telephone E/M services
- What kinds of payer and coverage issues are associated with these services
- Which types of external references are cited for additional context
Who Should Read This
- Physician practices
- Medical coders
- Billing staff
- Practice managers
- Revenue cycle teams
- Pain management practices
- Family medicine practices
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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