Hello,
I have a question about using 99354. I have a physician who is seeing a new patient and billed w/ 99202 and 99354. The office notes state that the patient was initially seen in an ER a week prior and was diagnosed with a venous embolism deep vein distal lower extremity. He is presenting to the office today and the following was performed:
"The dorsalis pedis and posterior tibular pulses were 1 bilaterally. One leg balance was within normal limits. The patient was able to lift up to 100 pounds occassionally and 50 pounds continuously. The patient was able to climb a ladder without any problems. He performed balance and lifting tests, heel and toe walks. Fifty minutes were spent w/ the patient and I filled out return to work forms."
99354 states it is used to report the first hour of prolonged services for face-to face care that is beyond the usual service in either inpatient or outpatient settings. So what would normally constitue for "beyond the usual service"? Is it the fact that the physician performed all of these tests, plus spending 50 minutes w/ the patient?
Any suggestions?
Emily Kress, CPC
I have a question about using 99354. I have a physician who is seeing a new patient and billed w/ 99202 and 99354. The office notes state that the patient was initially seen in an ER a week prior and was diagnosed with a venous embolism deep vein distal lower extremity. He is presenting to the office today and the following was performed:
"The dorsalis pedis and posterior tibular pulses were 1 bilaterally. One leg balance was within normal limits. The patient was able to lift up to 100 pounds occassionally and 50 pounds continuously. The patient was able to climb a ladder without any problems. He performed balance and lifting tests, heel and toe walks. Fifty minutes were spent w/ the patient and I filled out return to work forms."
99354 states it is used to report the first hour of prolonged services for face-to face care that is beyond the usual service in either inpatient or outpatient settings. So what would normally constitue for "beyond the usual service"? Is it the fact that the physician performed all of these tests, plus spending 50 minutes w/ the patient?
Any suggestions?
Emily Kress, CPC