Otolaryngology Coding Alert
Can You Append Modifier 50 to 31231?
Question: My doctor says that we can bill 31231 as bilateral without a modifier. Is this correct?
Take note: Related code 31237 (Nasal/sinus endoscopy, surgical; with biopsy, polypectomy or debridement [separate procedure]) is a unilateral code, however. If the physician performs the service bilaterally, you should bill it with a 50 modifier for bilateral and receive additional reimbursement.
West Virginia Subscriber
Answer: Yes, your physician is correct. Code 31231 (Nasal endoscopy, diagnostic, unilateral or bilateral [separate procedure]) is appropriate for both unilateral and bilateral procedures, so you shouldn’t report modifier 50 (Bilateral procedure) with it. Payment for 31231 is the same whether it is performed unilaterally or bilaterally.
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