tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2011 Issue 7

Reader Question: Distinguish Consultation, Transfer of Care

Question: We commonly see patients referred by another physician for conditions such as infected gallbladder, or breast or colon cancer. Our surgeon performs an office exam that frequently results in a later surgery. Should we code these as consultations or transfer of care? Do we need a written notice from the referring physician for consultations?Texas SubscriberAnswer: Typically, the situations you describe involve a consultation, such as 99241 (Office consultation ...), not a transfer of care.You do not need to have anything in writing from the requesting physician to bill a consult. That said, you should abide by...

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