Use scenarios to guide providers toward proper E/M billing

Why This Topic Matters

As E/M services and billing options expand, practices face questions about how different types of provider work relate to E/M services. The article explores these questions through examples involving documentation, consultations, refills, and patient communications.

Article Sections

1. Time-based billing

   Covers provider documentation and other non-face-to-face work associated with an observation encounter, including timing and prolonged-service considerations.

2. Interprofessional consults

   Examines pre-surgical clearance work, specialty input, and documentation themes related to interprofessional consultations.

3. Prescription refills

   Discusses provider work involving prescription refills and its relationship to E/M services.

4. Routine calls to patients

   Covers calls about test results and broader topics involving audio-only, virtual check-in, online E/M, and telehealth services.