Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Not coding for the treating physician? Look to outpatient E/M codes.In effect for nearly a year now, CPT®'s subsequent observation care codes have been something of a mystery since they were released, but CMS finally ended that by issuing clarifications about how to report these codes.Pinpoint Services Included in 99224-99226The codes in focus are: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 unit.99225, Subsequent observation care, per day, for the [...]