Avoid modifier 25 scrutiny with proper 'separately identifiable' documentation. Reporting a separate E/M every time your ophthalmologist performs a procedure is asking for an audit. Unlock the secrets to legitimate pay for separately identifiable E/M services using modifier 25 (Significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service by the same physician on the same day of the procedure or other service) with these three guidelines. 1. Ensure Your Ophthalmologist Performed a Separate Service You should use modifier 25 when your ophthalmologist's documentation supports that he performed an E/M service that was significant and separately identifiable from the work included in another service or procedure. Tip: Official guidance: Remember: Example: Bottom line: 2. Don't Confuse Modifiers 25 and 57 The difference between modifier 25 and modifier 57 (Decision for surgery) is a common point of confusion, because both involve your ophthalmologist performing a procedure and distinct E/M service for the same patient on the same day. The quickest distinction is that you would use 25 for a distinct E/M with a minor procedure, and 57 for a distinct E/M with a major follow-up procedure performed on the same day or following day. How it works: In contrast, you'll use modifier 57 for procedures with a 90- day global period. Note, however, that some payers are now requesting modifier 57 on 10-day global services, according to Jetton Torrix, CCS-P, CPC-H, course director of Knowledge Source Seminars in North Port, Fla. and Cross Country Education instructor, so check with your individual payers. Watch out: 3. Stop Omitting 25 Because of Same Dx Proper modifier 25 use does not require a different diagnosis code. In fact, the presence of different diagnosis codes attached to the E/M and the procedure does not necessarily support a separately reportable E/M service. "The guidelines changed years ago that you do not need to have a different diagnosis to use modifier 25," says Torrix. "But it still seems to be easier to get paid if the diagnoses are different," she adds. Go to the source: The CPT manual states: "The E/M service may be prompted by the symptom or condition for which the procedure and/or service was provided. As such, different diagnoses are not required for reporting of the E/M services on the same date." How it works: Your ophthalmologist's documentation should clearly establish that the visit's purpose was not to perform the procedure. If you receive denials on modifier 25 claims simply because you use the same diagnosis code for the E/M and the procedure, you should appeal assuming your surgeon's documentation supports reporting separate services.