You Be the Coder: Clarify ‘Established Patient’

Article Overview

This premium coding article addresses how to classify a patient as new or established when a physician joins a practice and continues care for a prior patient. It is aimed at coders, billers, and practice staff who need to apply CPT-based patient status guidance within office and other outpatient E/M reporting. The article discusses the general timing rule, the role of prior professional services, and the importance of a face-to-face encounter when evaluating patient status.