READER QUESTIONS:
Select 99211 for Most Med Checks
Published on Sun Jan 10, 2010
Question: An established patient with a plan of care in place for her gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) reports to the gastroenterologist; two weeks ago, the gastroenterologist started her on Nexium (esomeprazole). One of the practice's nonphysician practitioners (NPPs) evaluates the patient, taking blood pressure and other vitals. She also asks the patient if she has experienced any nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or any other side effects since she started Nexium. The patient reports that she's "thrown up three or four times" since starting the medication, but reports no other side effects. The patient's record indicates that the gastroenterologist scheduled this visit specifically to check how the patient's adjustment was going. What can I report for this encounter? Minnesota Subscriber Answer: Coding will depend on the encounter specifics, but this sounds like a 99211 (Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient, that may not require [...]