Advanced Search

Anesthesia Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Observation Codes 99218-99220 Could Apply to OR Watch

Published on Tue Mar 13, 2012

Question: A patient came to the OR for an extubation and observation, just in case he needed to be re-intubated. The anesthesiologist removed the tube but didn't provide any other services, other than observing the patient for 40 minutes. He also didn't administer any medications. Can we report this with an E/M code, or something else? Rhode Island Subscriber Answer: You can bill an observation code for the service from the range 99218-99220 (Initial observation care, per day, for the evaluation and management of a patient ...). Note that each of the code choices requires all three key components for the stated level of history, exam, and medical decision making. Each code also has an associated typical length of time: 30 minutes at the patient's bedside and on the patient's hospital floor or unit for code 99218; 50 minutes for 99219; and 70 minutes for 99220.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Anesthesia Coding Alert

View All