Wiki Bariatric E/M

[a.renee86]

We have been getting a few of our claims denied for our bariatric medicine provider. She counsels patients about dieting and prescribes weightloss medications to prevent the patient from having bariatric surgery. Usually a 99213 with a Dx of 278.00, I know insurance companies don't like seeing that 278.00 as primary, but there is nothing else discussed. Maybe putting the V-code for the BMI might help. Any suggestions?

 

[mitchellde]

The BMI might help but the 278.00 must be first listed, and it is appropriate since that is the reason for the encounter. If the payer does not cover the encounter then it will be patient responsibility.