Wiki Coapys

[ldiaz12687]

So I went to a office visit, and only saw a Medical Assistant. They took my vitals, and spoke to me a little. When I left, I payed my copay. Can you be charged a copay if you didn't see a doctor, or nurse?
And how would the visit be billed?
The office stated that they are in the transition of getting a new nurse, so there isn't one currently in the office.
I'm pretty sure the office can't charge a copay when there's no professional medical staff in the office. Am I wrong?

 

[cdnred1360]

They can charge a 99211 if you are an established patient, presence of physician or other qualified health care professional not required. Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient, that may not require the presence of a physician or other qualified health care professional. Usually, the presenting problem(s) are minimal. Typically, 5 minutes are spent performing or supervising these services. if a new patient then no, may not bill.

 

[CodingKing]

Are you saying the MA was alone in the office, like MD was out of the office getting lunch or off-site at a conference? That may run afoul of state scope of practice laws. Most if not all require direct/onsite supervision of either NP, PA or MD

https://www.aama-ntl.org/employers/state-scope-of-practice-laws