Wiki E/M question about places of service...

[AdamlShoop]

As i'm studying these e/m guidelines, I feel as if the pattern is that the e/m service code to use depends on where the patient ENDED up. For example, if the patient has an OUTPATIENT encounter, but ends up in "OBSERVATION STATUS" then the code from INITIAL OBSERVATION STATUS section is used.

However, if they are in OBSERVATION STATUS, and then are ADMITTED, then an INITIAL HOSPITAL CARE code is used.

Is this correct. Is the correct code to be used, dependant on where they were finally seen before discharge? Thank you.

 

[tinagirl1967]

observation

Yes. Just be sure your looking at the "time guidelines" for observation when determining which code to use.

 

[AdamlShoop]

Yes. Just be sure your looking at the "time guidelines" for observation when determining which code to use.

Thank you so very much for that! Is time a determining factor when choosing a consultation level of service, rather than the key components?

 

[MnTwins29]

Tiiime is on my side...

For consultations as well as office visits and hospital inpatient visits, etc. ensure that total time is documented and that 50% or more of that total time was spent on counseling or coordination of care. See the CPT guidelines for more information.