Wiki PLEASE CLARIFY THIS CODING UPDATE FOR E&M

[Nukegirl13]

It is my understanding that in 2021 there will no longer be E&M codes that will be based on History and MDM leveling and that all will be based on time spent instead. Does anyone know if this is true or not? If so, I am all for it as it takes out so much confusion and subjectivity.

 

[TThivierge]

Hi
Well I heard the CPT 99201 will be abolished but still have the CPT codes of E/M. I did also hear thru the Med Coding Grapeview they will use chief complaint section more by letting the nurse or med assistant gather info from patient interview in which the physician can use this in the assessing more of the MDM factors. Usually just code from the Phys Exam/assessment section with PMH and ROS influences.
Anyone else hear more data on this change of E/M codes?
Lady T

 

[Pathos]

E/M levels will be based on either MDM or time.

Here are some good readings on the topic:

• CMS 2020 E/M guidelines (with references to 2021 changes)
• AAPC on 2021 E/M changes
• AMA on 2021 E/M changes
• CMS Newsroom declaring 2021 E/M changes (article from Nov 2019)
• CMS Webinar and materials on the 2021 E/M changes (also from Nov 2019)