Wiki 24 modifier and ESWL

[mlblake]

Patient has ESWL performed for LEFT kidney stones. During the postoperative period, patient presents to the office with complaints of right flank pain , CT scan shows right kidney stone.

Can I bill e/m visit with -24 modifier since the stone is now present in the opposite kidney?

Thanks for any input!

 

[nateich]

Yes, 2 of 3 components must be met for an established patient, according to the EM guidelines.

 

[mlblake]

Ok... But would it be considered an unrelated EM service from the surgery? ESWL has 90 day global period.

 

[nateich]

yes, the stone are in separate kidneys