Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Question: Our provider performed an office evaluation and management (E/M) service over the phone that lasted 55 minutes. Can we bill +99354 in addition to 99443?

Michigan Subscriber

Answer: The answer may depend on the payer. You are correct that the appropriate code for the phone E/M service is 99443 (Telephone evaluation and management service by a physician or other qualified health care professional who may report evaluation and management services provided to an established patient, parent, or guardian not originating from a related E/M service provided within the previous 7 days nor leading to an E/M service or procedure within the next 24 hours or soonest available appointment; 21-30 minutes of medical discussion).