Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Question: When is it correct to use modifier GV? Iowa Subscriber Answer: You should append modifier GV (Attending physician not employed or paid under agreement by the patient's hospice provider) to Part B claims for your oncologist's hospice services if the physician and service meet certain conditions: 1. Independent attending physician: To use modifier GV, the hospice patient must have designated the oncologist as an independent attending physician, which means the hospice does not employ or have a payment arrangement with the oncologist. Tip: The term "independent attending physician" may apply to a nurse practitioner. 2. Related to terminal illness: Before appending GV, be sure the oncologist saw the patient to treat or manage the terminal illness. For services related to other diagnoses, consider modifier GW (Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal illness). 3. Professional services: If the oncologist provides a service with both professional and technical components, [...]