Evaluate E/M coding using new telehealth modifiers

Why This Topic Matters

The article is relevant to practices that bill Medicare E/M services and telehealth encounters because it summarizes newly introduced CMS modifiers and the policy context surrounding their use. It also highlights why these changes matter for claims reporting, documentation, and program integrity review.

Article Sections

1. Four modifiers in focus

   Introduces the new HCPCS modifiers discussed in the article and frames them within CMS telehealth and E/M policy updates. It provides the organizational context for the reporting topics that follow.

2. Modifier -FQ

   Covers the telehealth modifier associated with audio-only mental health encounters and the CMS policy context behind its release. The section focuses on the broader reporting setting for these services.

3. Modifier -FR

   Addresses the supervision-related telehealth modifier and CMS’s discussion of virtual supervision during the public health emergency. It also notes the surrounding guidance gaps and documentation context.

4. Modifier -FS

   Discusses the split/shared visit modifier in relation to facility-based E/M and critical care reporting. The section situates the modifier within CMS claims guidance and physician/non-physician practitioner billing.

5. Modifier -FT

   Reviews the modifier tied to unrelated E/M services during postoperative periods and on the same day as other services. It places the modifier within broader CMS guidance for postoperative and critical care scenarios.

6. Watch for additional details

   Summarizes CMS’s stated goals for tracking utilization and monitoring claims under the new modifiers. The section also highlights the broader compliance and training implications for practices.