Eli's Rehab Report

Question: Which code should I use for a nurse practitioner (NP) visit when the physiatrist doesn't first see the patient?

Florida Subscriber

Answer: You should report the appropriate E/M service that the NP performs. Florida permits NPs to bill independently through collaborative physician agreements. That means the NP may bill any service under her own identification number.
 
For instance, a 17-year-old patient sprains her ankle while playing soccer at school. The patient's mother phones the office, but the physiatrist's schedule is full, so the receptionist schedules the patient to see the NP. She performs an expanded problem-focused history, an expanded problem-focused examination, and straightforward medical decision-making. You should report 99202 (Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of a new patient ... physicians typically spend 20 minutes face-to-face with the patient and/or family) for the NP's service.