Pediatric Coding Alert

Question: How should I bill for a nurse who spends more than half an hour counseling a parent about a childs problem(s)? Which diagnosis code should I use?

Connecticut Subscriber

 Answer: The nurse-visit code, 99211 (office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient, that may not require the presence of a physician; usually, the presenting problem[s] are minimal; typically, 5 minutes are spent performing or supervising these services), is the only E/M code a nurse can use. The other E/M codes may only be used by the pediatrician or the pediatric nurse practitioner. The time is well-spent even if not billable. Educating a parent will save your pediatrician and your office unnecessary telephone calls in the future.