Reader Question: Allergy Injection Reignites 'New Vs. Established' Patient Debate

Article Overview

This reader Q&A explains a common coding question about whether prior contact with a patient changes new-versus-established patient status for E/M billing. It is aimed at coders, billers, and practice staff who need to understand the general rules discussed by CPT and CMS, including how group practice, specialty, and the three-year lookback factor into patient classification. The article provides broad guidance on the policy framework rather than a detailed coding tutorial.