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Pulmonology Coding Alert

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Modifiers 58 vs. 78: Secure Reimbursement For Return-to-OR Services

Published on Thu Aug 18, 2011

Unmask the modifier to use when describing treatment for complication.Global period modifiers can leave you perplexed if you don't know when to append them for the added service. Because some modifiers share the phrases "same physician," "postoperative period," and "related procedure," many coders often let their usage of modifiers go awry.Check out the following two frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you ease through the subtleties of applying these modifiers.1. What Is The Difference Between Modifier 58 And 78?According to CPT guidelines, you would use modifier 58 (Staged or related procedure or service by the same provider during the postoperative period) when a second surgery is performed in the postoperative period of another surgery when the subsequent procedure was: planned or "staged" or more extensive than the original procedure; or for therapy following a surgical procedure; or for the reapplication of the cast within the 90-day global period.When you have [...]
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