apache069
Networker
Hello Everyone,
The new 2011 CPT manual states that if the physician is unable to advance the colonoscope past the splenic flexure due to unforseen circumstances report the colonoscopy code with with modifier -53.
My question is I thought modifier -53 was for termination of a procedure due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well being of the patient. For example I wouldn't think you would use a -53 on a patient who was prepped for a full colonoscopy but it was terminated due to poor prep and they only got to the transverse colon.
I have also heard that only medicare requires the -53 and all other payers require the -52. Please help..................as you can see, I am a bit confused. Thanks so much!
The new 2011 CPT manual states that if the physician is unable to advance the colonoscope past the splenic flexure due to unforseen circumstances report the colonoscopy code with with modifier -53.
My question is I thought modifier -53 was for termination of a procedure due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well being of the patient. For example I wouldn't think you would use a -53 on a patient who was prepped for a full colonoscopy but it was terminated due to poor prep and they only got to the transverse colon.
I have also heard that only medicare requires the -53 and all other payers require the -52. Please help..................as you can see, I am a bit confused. Thanks so much!