Wiki E/m coding

[dtr9175]

I have a coding question regarding E/M new patient versus established patient.

The patient is seen in the hospital for the first time for a perm cath insert on 09/07/2010, no E/M was done. The patient is now coming in on 09/10/2010 is the patient New patient to us for establsihed?

 

[cmcgarry]

According to the CPT guidelines for distinguishing between new and established patients, since the previous service was face - to - face (insertion of cath), the patient would be established. Even though no E/M was separately performed at the encounter, this would still be an established patient.

Hope this helps,