E/M Coding Alert - 2008 Issue 8
You Be the Coder: Can 2 Docs Report 43246?
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Article Overview
This article explains a coding and reimbursement question involving Medicare payment for a procedure performed by two physicians working together. It focuses on the applicable CPT procedure, related modifier usage, and the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule indicators that affect whether an assistant surgeon or co-surgeon claim may be paid. The discussion is aimed at coders, billers, and physician practices that need to understand how Medicare evaluates multi-physician involvement in this type of service.
Why This Topic Matters
Medicare payment for multi-physician procedures can be denied if the claim does not align with the procedure’s modifier indicators or supporting documentation expectations. Understanding the article helps practices evaluate whether a second physician’s involvement is likely to be reimbursable and what categories of documentation and specialty considerations are relevant.
What You Will Learn
- How Medicare fee schedule indicators relate to multi-physician billing scenarios
- Which broad modifier categories are discussed for assistant surgeon and co-surgeon reporting
- Why documentation and specialty considerations matter in this type of claim review
- How payer policy can affect reimbursement when more than one physician participates in a procedure
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Medical billers
- Physician practice administrators
- Surgeons
- Gastroenterology practices
Codes Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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