Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Question: The gastroenterologist sees an established patient with a plan of care in place for her gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Two weeks ago, the gastroenterologist started her on Nexium (esomeprazole). During the visit, one of our nonphysician practitioners (NPPs) evaluates the patient, taking blood pressure and other vitals. She also asks the patient if she has experienced side effects since she started Nexium. The patient reports that she has "thrown up three or four times" since starting Nexium. The gastroenterologist's report indicates that the visit is specifically for checking how the patient is adjusting to the medication. What E/M code should I report for this encounter?Georgia SubscriberAnswer: This looks like a 99211 (Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient, that may not require the presence of a physician. Usually, the presenting problem[s] are minimal. Typically, 5 minutes are spent performing or supervising these [...]