Correct Coding Initiative: CCI Now Bars You From Reporting Alcohol and Tobacco Screening Codes With E/M Services

Why This Topic Matters

CCI edits directly affect claim edit outcomes and the ability to report services together, so update awareness is important for compliant coding and billing workflows. Readers who work with CPT and HCPCS-based claims need to know which broad service categories are affected by the new edit version and where CMS posts the official edit list and policy manual.

Article Sections

1. New bundles

   This section summarizes newly added edit pairings in the latest CCI release and identifies the broad service categories affected. It focuses on updates involving evaluation and management services and selected assessment or screening services.

2. Modifier changes

   This section covers changes to modifier indicators for certain edit pairs and explains that some bundles are treated differently from others in the new release. It also notes a change affecting a procedure code pairing involving a navigational service and operating microscope use.

3. CMS reference information

   This section points readers to official CMS resources for the current CCI edit list and policy manual. It serves as a reference note rather than a coding explanation.