Reader Question: Spirometry

Question: Can I code spirometry when it is performed on the same day as an E/M service?

Kentucky Subscriber

Answer: Absolutely. This is a classic case of modifier -25 (Significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service by the same physician on the same day of the procedure or other service), which should be used anytime a patient is evaluated on the same day as a minor procedure and clear documentation supports the E/M in addition to the procedure, in this case the spirometry. Be sure you have this documentation handy because some carriers may require you to submit your E/M notes for payment when an E/M service has -25 appended to it.