MODIFIERS: Consider Using Time-Based Billing For E/M Visits With Modifier -57

Article Overview

This Find-A-Code article examines documentation-focused billing considerations for evaluation and management visits related to surgery, with particular attention to time-based support, counseling and coordination of care, and the role of modifier -57. It is aimed at coders, billers, and clinical documentation staff who need to understand when visit documentation may support one billing approach over another and what kinds of record details are emphasized. The article presents practical guidance about how documentation should reflect the time spent and the nature of the work performed during the visit.