Understanding E/M: Is that post-op visit really unrelated?

Why This Topic Matters

Global period billing is a common source of errors and compliance risk. Understanding the distinction between related post-op care and separately billable services helps practices avoid improper claims and align with Medicare guidance.

Article Sections

1. Scenario and Medicare contractor guidance

   Introduces a post-operative billing scenario and summarizes Medicare contractor guidance on whether the visit is considered part of the global surgical package.

2. Compliance concerns and modifier use

   Discusses common billing issues identified by consultants and references compliance attention from federal oversight related to E/M billing during the global period.

3. When care may be separately payable

   Summarizes general circumstances discussed in the article where an office visit or procedure may be considered separately reportable during the global period.

4. Examples and official resource references

   Provides illustrative claim scenarios and lists supporting Medicare and contractor reference sources.