ED Coding & Reimbursement Alert - 2021 Issue 2
Reader Questions: Dissect Office or Consult E/M Choice
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Article Overview
This reader Q&A addresses how to think about evaluation and management reporting when one provider examines a patient and sends a report to another provider who requested input. It is aimed at coders, billers, and clinicians who need to understand the general distinction between consultation-related services and office or outpatient E/M services, along with the role of payer policy and CPT guidance.
Why This Topic Matters
Correctly identifying the general E/M category affects claim accuracy and payer compliance, especially when consultation services are involved and payer rules differ. The article helps readers recognize that reporting can vary based on whether the payer follows CPT consultation codes or requires a different office/outpatient E/M approach.
Article Sections
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Question
The reader presents a physician-to-physician service scenario and asks which general E/M category should be considered for billing.
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Answer
The response discusses the broad reporting approach for consultation-related services, the relevance of CPT guidance, and the impact of payer policy on E/M selection.
What You Will Learn
- How to recognize the general difference between consultation-related reporting and office or outpatient E/M reporting
- Why payer policy can affect which E/M category is appropriate
- How CPT consultation guidance fits into interprofessional service scenarios at a high level
- When to consider reviewing a payer’s rules before submitting an E/M claim
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Billing staff
- Physicians
- Other qualified health care professionals
- Compliance teams
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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