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Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

List Payment Modifiers Before -LT and -RT

Published on Sat Feb 19, 2005

Question: When I append multiple modifiers to a CPT code, is there any rule about the order in which they should appear?


Pennsylvania Subscriber


Answer: If you are reporting a code that is bundled into another procedure by the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI), you should first list any modifiers that justify reporting the two procedures together - modifiers like -59 (Distinct procedural service) that show that the procedure was necessary and distinct from the other service.

Next: List any modifiers that affect payment - such as -50 (Bilateral procedure) or -51 (Multiple services).

Then: List any "informational" modifiers - such as -RT or -LT - that will not affect the reimbursement for the CPT code but provide more specific information such as what side the ophthalmologist performed the procedure on.

Listing informational modifiers before payment modifiers may lead to denials.
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