Understanding E/M: 10 ways to kick-start your E/M 2021 prep and ensure a smooth switch

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps practices understand the scope of the E/M transition and the kinds of operational work needed before the new guidance takes effect, especially for teams responsible for documentation, coding, auditing, and reimbursement planning.

Article Sections

1. Preparation for the 2021 E/M revisions

   Introduces the upcoming changes to office and other outpatient E/M services and frames the need for advance planning. Summarizes the article’s practical focus for practice transition readiness.

2. Assign ownership for the transition

   Discusses organizing internal responsibility for the change and identifying the staff roles involved in implementation. Emphasizes broad practice-wide coordination.

3. Baseline audits and documentation review

   Covers starting with a coding and documentation audit to understand current performance and workflow gaps. Notes the value of an objective starting point for transition planning.

4. Study AMA materials and new guideline concepts

   Highlights reviewing published guidance and related definitions tied to the revised office E/M framework. Focuses on becoming familiar with the structure of the new guidance.

5. History, physical exam, and charting considerations

   Addresses how the revised guidance affects documentation practices and what clinicians should keep in mind when recording visits. Also touches on coordination and record clarity across care settings.

6. Applying old and new E/M guidelines across specialties

   Explains that some practices may need to use different guideline sets depending on the service setting or code family. Uses a specialty example to illustrate the mixed transition environment.

7. Practice coding exercises and time studies

   Describes using sample charts and time-based workflow reviews to prepare staff for the revised framework. Focuses on building familiarity and testing practice readiness.

8. Operational updates and payer communication

   Covers noncoding implementation tasks such as updating forms, systems, and internal processes. Also addresses communication with private payers during contract and coverage discussions.

9. Resources and related educational offerings

   Lists supporting reference materials and related educational opportunities. Serves as a wrap-up for further study rather than substantive coding guidance.