Advanced Search

Orthopedic Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

How to Code Elective Surgery

Published on Sun Aug 01, 1999

Question: 1. When patients are admitted for elective surgery, is it proper to code with the observation code (99219)? 2. If treatment is emergent/non-elective, does this code apply?

Anonymous ME Subscriber

Answer: 1. CPT states about observation codes: These codes are not to be utilized for post-operative recovery if the procedure is considered part of the surgical package. Therefore, it would not be appropriate to bill for observation after the surgery is performed. 2. If during the observation stay, the decision for surgery is urgently made, then it would be appropriate to code from observation services (99218-99220) with the -57 modifier (decision for surgery) attached.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more

Other Articles in this issue of

Orthopedic Coding Alert

View All