Wiki Modifier -82

[thomasgail]

Our doctors are submitting their surgery superbills with -82 Assistant Surgeon(when qualified Resident surgeon not available). I am unsure do we use the -82 on every CPT code or just the primary code? I also read that the doctor needs to document "resident not available" in dictation is this true to utilize this modifier? Any information on this modifier and usage of it is appreciated. Thank you!

 

[dalanicks@aol.com]

82

hi yes that is correct
on the surgeons report when he lists the assistant surgeons name he should have that when resident is not available. and as far as the 82 as long as the cpt code qualifies for the 82 then use it there are some codes (autograph) that does not require any modifiers on. you just have to double check
hope that helps

 

[thomasgail]

Thank you!

 

[nalld@health.missouri.edu]

Can we use 78 modifier with 82 modifier. The surgeon and assistant surgeon had to do another unexpected surgery in the PO period.

 

[csperoni]

There is no global period for the assistant surgeon. -78 would not be required for the assist.