tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2003 Issue 2

Reader Question: Distinguish Consult from Established Patient Visit

Question: An internist requested a consult for an elderly patient with lower gastrointestinal (GI) pain and bleeding. The surgeon evaluated the patient and scheduled a sigmoidoscopy the following day. Can we bill a consult even though the physician has scheduled a procedure? Washington, D.C., SubscriberAnswer: As long as the internist submitted a written request for the surgeon's opinion and the surgeon provided a report of his or her findings, the surgeon may report a consult for the initial meeting with the patient. If the physician assumes care for the patient's condition following the initial visit, however, you should...

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