Update E/M 2021: Focus on MDM and Time Next Year

Why This Topic Matters

The 2021 E/M revisions affect how office and outpatient visits are documented, selected, and audited. Understanding the update helps practices adjust workflows and records for compliant code selection under the revised CPT framework.

Article Sections

1. Code changes for office and outpatient E/M

   Introduces the 2021 changes to office and outpatient evaluation and management services and the overall shift in code selection criteria.

2. See How MDM’s Importance Changes

   Explains the changed relationship between medical decision making and the office/outpatient E/M code set for 2021.

3. Brace for Time Change, Too

   Describes the revised role of time in selecting office and outpatient E/M services and the updated time-based framework.

4. Count these activities in 2021

   Summarizes the categories of work that contribute to total time under the updated guidance.

5. Time-Based Example

   Presents an illustrative office/outpatient scenario showing how the updated guidance applies in a clinical setting.