Advanced Search

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Can You Append Modifier 50 to 31231?

Published on Mon Aug 19, 2013

Question: My doctor says that we can bill 31231 as bilateral without a modifier. Is this correct?
West Virginia Subscriber
Answer: Yes, your physician is correct. Code 31231 (Nasal endoscopy, diagnostic, unilateral or bilateral [separate procedure]) is appropriate for both unilateral and bilateral procedures, so you shouldn’t report modifier 50 (Bilateral procedure) with it. Payment for [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

View All