Reader Question: Presurgical H&P

Why This Topic Matters

Preoperative evaluation is a common source of confusion in surgical coding because similar-looking visits may be bundled, separately billable, or subject to different reporting conventions depending on the circumstance. Understanding the article helps reduce improper billing risk and supports more accurate claim submission for surgical practices.

Article Sections

1. Question

   The reader asks about reporting a presurgical history and physical performed before surgery and which code may apply.

2. Answer

   The response discusses the general distinction between services included with surgery and visits that may be separately reported, along with timing and coverage considerations. It also references established patient E/M reporting and modifier use in certain circumstances.

3. Example and global period discussion

   An example scenario is used to illustrate timing relative to surgery and how the global package affects reporting. The section also notes the diagnostic labeling associated with a separate preoperative examination visit.