Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

The OIG is watching observation coding, so be sure you are, too.Last month's issue of Oncology and Hematology Coding Alert reported the addition of three new "subsequent observation care" codes. Here are the definitions so you can get a feel for what these codes will require:99224 -- Subsequent observation care, per day, for the evaluation and management of a patient, which requires at least 2 of these 3 key components: Problem focused interval history; Problem focused examination; Medical decision making that is straightforward or of low complexity. Counseling and/or coordination of care with other providers or agencies are provided consistent with the nature of the problem(s) and the patient's and/or family's needs. Usually, the patient is stable, recovering, or improving. Physicians typically spend 15 minutes at the bedside and on the patient's hospital floor or unit99225 -- ... An expanded problem focused interval history; An expanded problem focused examination; Medical decision making [...]