Append modifier -FT to E/M codes for unrelated visit services

April 5th, 2022

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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 reviews Medicare and payer guidance on modifier -FT and its reported use with unrelated evaluation and management services. It is aimed at coders, billers, and practice administrators who need to understand how major Medicare contractors and selected commercial payers are interpreting the modifier, including the broader policy context and follow-up considerations for claims processing.

Why This Topic Matters

Modifier -FT has been interpreted differently across Medicare contractors and payers, creating uncertainty for claim submission and denial management. Understanding the current guidance helps practices align billing workflows with the applicable payer rules and monitor for updates.

Article Sections

  1. Modifier -FT overview

    Introduces the modifier, the general setting in which it is discussed, and the broad Medicare context surrounding unrelated E/M services during global periods or on the same day as other services.

  2. Medicare billing guidance

    Summarizes guidance from Medicare contractors and selected commercial payers, along with workflow considerations for tracking payer-specific policies and claim outcomes.

What You Will Learn

  • The general purpose of modifier -FT in E/M reporting
  • How Medicare contractors and payers differ in their guidance
  • Which organizations have issued or not yet issued guidance
  • Why claim monitoring and payer-specific workflow review are important

Who Should Read This

  • Medical coders
  • Billing professionals
  • Practice managers
  • Compliance staff
  • Physician practices

Codes Discussed

  • CPT: 99291
  • CPT: 99292

Modifiers Discussed

  • CPT: -FT
  • CPT: -54
  • CPT: -55
  • CPT: -25

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