Medicare Compliance & Reimbursement - 2023 Issue 8
Reader Questions: Count Time Beyond Encounter for E/M
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This reader Q&A explains a time-based E/M coding issue under CPT® office and outpatient guidance, focusing on what kinds of provider time may be considered on the date of service. It is relevant to coders, auditors, and clinicians who document and level E/M services, especially when reviewing how pre- and post-encounter work fits into time-based reporting.
Why This Topic Matters
Understanding the scope of time counted for E/M reporting affects documentation, level selection, and audit support. The article helps readers recognize the broader time concepts used in current CPT® E/M guidance for office and outpatient services.
What You Will Learn
- How E/M time is framed in current CPT® office and outpatient guidance
- What types of same-day provider work may be considered in time-based E/M reporting
- Why documentation of time-related activities matters for audit support
- How the article’s example illustrates time beyond direct patient contact
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Physicians
- Surgeons
- Clinical documentation staff
- Practice managers
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.


Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com