Understanding E/M: Focus on 9 new E/M definitions to prepare staff for 2021 update

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Note:  The following article synopsis was NOT provided by HCPro. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.

Article Overview

This article explains a subset of the updated E/M definition concepts being discussed ahead of the 2021 office visit changes, with emphasis on issues relevant to pain management practices. It is aimed at coders, auditors, clinicians, and staff who need a working understanding of the new terminology and documentation concepts that influence medical decision making. The discussion covers general guidance on patient stability, outside sources and records, test interpretation, and other terminology used in the updated E/M framework.

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding the updated E/M terminology helps practices train staff, support documentation, and prepare for changes that may affect office visit coding and audit readiness.

Article Sections

  1. Overview of the 2021 E/M definition changes

    Introduces the purpose of the article and the broader set of E/M definitions affecting office visit medical decision making. It also notes the focus on pain management practice education and training.

  2. Selected MDM-related definitions

    Discusses several terminology changes and concepts used in the updated medical decision making framework. The section presents broad guidance on source types, chronic illness status, external information, independent interpretation, addressed problems, stability, and tests.

  3. Editor’s note

    Provides publication-related information about an on-demand presentation and registration details.

What You Will Learn

  • The general purpose of the updated E/M definitions for office visit medical decision making
  • Which broad terminology areas are highlighted for staff training
  • How the article frames concepts related to outside information, patient status, and testing
  • Why the changes are relevant to pain management practices and audit support

Who Should Read This

  • Medical coders
  • Clinical staff
  • Practice managers
  • Auditors
  • Pain management practices

Codes Discussed

Code Ranges Discussed


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