E/M Coding: Tips Are Key to Deciphering 99213 From 99214

Why This Topic Matters

Accurate E/M level selection affects reimbursement, compliance, and the need for later chart review. The article helps readers understand why consistent documentation review and payer-specific guidance are important for coding workflow.

Article Sections

1. Introduction

   The opening frames the article around E/M coding accuracy, reimbursement concerns, and the risk of routine selection of lower-level established patient office visit codes.

2. Tip 1: Get an Auditing Tool

   This section discusses the use of auditing tools and internal review resources to support E/M code assignment and documentation checking.

3. Tip 2: Check All Elements

   This section addresses the need to review the components used in E/M level selection and to understand how payer-specific documentation standards may differ.

4. Tip 3: Avoid 99213 on Every Visit

   This section covers the importance of matching code selection to the documentation pattern across visits and avoiding suspiciously uniform coding patterns.