CatchTheWind
Guest
Patient was evaluated and treated for Problem A. He is instructed to return in two months for re-evaluation.
Meanwhile, just three weeks later, he develops unrelated Problem B and comes in. Since he's here anyway, the provider takes a look at Problem A and documents an exam and re-evaluation of it (in addition to the exam and evaluation of Problem B).
Can the re-evaluation of Problem A be counted toward the E/M? I'm thinking not, because "let's just take a look at it as long as you're here" does not, in my mind, constitute medical necessity (and we all know that "medical necessity is the “overarching criterion for payment").
What do you think?
Meanwhile, just three weeks later, he develops unrelated Problem B and comes in. Since he's here anyway, the provider takes a look at Problem A and documents an exam and re-evaluation of it (in addition to the exam and evaluation of Problem B).
Can the re-evaluation of Problem A be counted toward the E/M? I'm thinking not, because "let's just take a look at it as long as you're here" does not, in my mind, constitute medical necessity (and we all know that "medical necessity is the “overarching criterion for payment").
What do you think?
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