Wiki What is the correct order for modifiers

[dianawink]

What is the correct way to bill modifiers If you are using mod RT and
59 (on the same line) which goes first does it make a difference???

 

[jmcpolin]

I ususally code the modifier that affects payment first.

 

[theresa.dix@tennova.com]

i ususally code the modifier that affects payment first.

59-rt

 

[heatheralayna]

numbers go first, then any letter modifiers in numeric - alpha order. so it would be 59-RT

HTH Heather Shaw, CPC, CIRCC

 

[tammster]

This is the way I was taught, as well, but some of my doctors disagree...can anyone provide a reference for that guideline?

 

[aaron.lucas]

Actually I was told if you're using an anatomical modifier then the 59 isn't necessary because the anatomical mod covers the "different anatomical location" requirement. what's the context the modifiers are being used in? is there more than one procedure being done on the right side?

 

[maryawinfield04]

So in the case of the -22 and -82 modifier would i use the combination on 22,82 or 82,22? With reading some of the reponses i'm understanding it as modifier that effect payment (22) would go first? Any help would be appreciated

 

[aaron.lucas]

Well, normally -82 affects payment as well, but since the increased reimbursement for modifier -22 is determined by the carrier normally, you would probably use -22 first. Although I wonder if an assistant surgeon would even be allowed to bill for increased services, because the assistant isn't typically doing as much work as the primary right? Anybody know the answer to that?

 

[maryawinfield04]

well, normally -82 affects payment as well, but since the increased reimbursement for modifier -22 is determined by the carrier normally, you would probably use -22 first. Although i wonder if an assistant surgeon would even be allowed to bill for increased services, because the assistant isn't typically doing as much work as the primary right? Anybody know the answer to that?

yes i wonder if you can bill a -22 modifier for the assistant. I didn't get an edit for the -22 modifier for the asst. I think you can because the asst is doing more than what they normally do when they asst???