CPT® 2012: 99218-99220: Observation Time Guidelines Could Help You Gain Pay

Why This Topic Matters

It helps readers identify which 2012 CPT and HCPCS topics are covered so they can judge whether the article is relevant to observation care coding, modifier updates, and Medicare-related billing discussions.

Article Sections

1. Get a New Outlook on E/M Time

   This section reviews the 2012 observation care update and its relationship to evaluation and management time concepts. It focuses on the broader implications of adding typical time guidance to the initial observation care codes.

2. New 2012 Modifier May Not Mean Extra Pay

   This section introduces a new modifier appearing in the 2012 CPT manual and discusses its placement in the publication timeline. It also addresses the article’s Medicare-related context and references a preventive screening example.