Primary Care Coding Alert

Question: I saw numerous additions and deletions to CPT 2005's F codes. When should I report these codes?

Answer: You may want to use the optional Category II codes, which end in an "F", if your practice doesn't have an electronic medical system (EMR). The codes don't replace Category I codes, but using them may decrease your administrative burden.

Why: The Category II codes help physicians track quality measures through their existing administrative/
practice management/billing software, rather than having to undergo a chart review. The codes are for statistical purposes, not reimbursement.

Many of the codes describe components that an E/M service or laboratory test normally includes. Even though CPT 2005 contains numerous F-code additions and deletions, a reorganization of this section caused many of the changes. You may want to consider using these codes.