E/M Coding Alert - 2010 Issue 33
Reader Questions: Check Instruction Before Submitting 98960
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Article Overview
This premium Q&A article explains how to think about coding patient education and self-management training in an office setting. It is aimed at physicians, nurses, NPPs, and coding staff who need to determine whether a teaching encounter is reported as a separate education service or as part of an evaluation and management visit. The discussion addresses general documentation and service-type considerations, the role of standardized curricula, and how counseling time can affect visit level selection.
Why This Topic Matters
Patient teaching is common, but the reporting path depends on who provides the instruction and how the encounter is structured. Understanding the distinction helps avoid inaccurate reporting and supports consistent selection of the appropriate service category.
What You Will Learn
- How patient education encounters may be approached from a coding perspective
- What factors can affect whether teaching is treated as a separate service or part of an office visit
- How counseling and instruction time can influence evaluation and management coding
- What types of providers may participate in patient education encounters
Who Should Read This
- Physicians
- Nurse practitioners
- Nurses
- Medical coders
- Billing staff
- Practice managers
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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