Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Check your 2010 consultation coding moxie. Find out if you're set to properly code your neurologist's consultation services this year by checking your answers to the three quiz questions against this answer key. Answer 1: Check With Your MAC for Guidance When your neurologist sees a Medicare inpatient and would have used an inpatient consultation code, this year you should report an initial hospital care code (99221-99223). If the documentation for the E/M service does not meet the requirements of the lowest level initial inpatient hospital care code, however, your coding will now depend on your Medicare Administrative Contractor's (MAC) or carrier's policy. Problem: The lowest initial hospital care code (99221) requires a minimum of a detailed history and detailed exam. When your neurologist's documentation does not reach this level, there is a question as to what CPT codes you should use. Option 1: Some MACs/carriers have stated that you [...]