Wiki Modifier -91 clarification

[kimnwez2@gmail.com]

I need some help! I have a question regarding modifier -91. If a provider (in the ER) orders a test (80053) and then orders another test, specifically looking at a lab individually (ie potassium or lab 80048) should mod -91 be applied? or should it only be applied to the exact same CPT code if it is reported a second time? I have looked at the definition of the use of -91 in the CPT book, and I am not sure if I am misunderstanding the definition, or if the lab tech is incorrect for applying the -91 on the different test and if a modifier is needed, would it be an -XU? I greatly appreciate any insight that anyone can provide.

 

[rbandaru]

91 Modifier need to be assigned when the same test (code) repeatedly performed on the same day. For the second code we have to assign the 91 Modifier.
In the above scenario we have to assign XU Modifier to 80048.
80048 is ad component code and 80053 is a comprehensive code. Use XU Modifier to component code.

Regards
Dr.Ramnath Bandaru, CCS, CPC
American Medical Services LLC
http://amshealth.com/
Twitter: @HospitalCoders