Countdown to 2021: Know What Stays, What Goes, in the 2021 E/M Shakeup

Why This Topic Matters

The 2021 E/M overhaul affected workflow, documentation, code selection, and reimbursement across many practices, so understanding the scope of the changes was important for preparation and systems updates.

Article Sections

1. Background

   Introduces the policy context for the outpatient E/M changes and summarizes the overall purpose of the rulemaking. It frames the timing and scope of the transition for 2021.

2. Industry input

   Summarizes the roles of major organizations and stakeholder reactions to the proposed and final changes. It highlights the need for preparation across billing, vendor, and payer systems.

3. Here Are the E/M Specifics

   Outlines the main categories of changes affecting office and outpatient E/M services. The section focuses on what is being updated for new and established patient visits, documentation, definitions, and add-on reporting.

4. Important

   Notes a related policy area that is not changing as part of this update and points to future rulemaking. It provides context on adjacent visit groups and broader payment policy.

5. Some Specialties May See E/M Pay Cut with New RVUs

   Discusses valuation and reimbursement impacts associated with updated relative values. It addresses how different specialties may be affected by the redistribution.

6. Reasoning

   Explains the agency’s rationale for finalizing the valuation approach and not delaying the changes. It also summarizes comments about timing and future rulemaking.