Pulmonology Coding Alert

Question: Our pulmonologist recently assessed a patient with complaints of shortness of breath. After examination and running through several tests, he determined it was related to the patient's emphysema caused by habitual use of tobacco. Our pulmonologist provided inhalation using a nebulizer and instructed the patient on the use of the nebulizer. What codes should I use to report the services provided by our pulmonologist?New Mexico SubscriberAnswer: Since your pulmonologist evaluated the patient through history and interpretations of tests, you will need to choose the appropriate E/M code for the office visit (99201-99205, Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of a new patient...) for a new patient or 99211-99215 (Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient...) for an established patient. You will also need to append the modifier 25 (Significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service by the same [...]