Wiki Billing for breastfeeding issues during post partum period

[sooloo66]

We have a physician who often sees her OB patient's after delivery for breastfeeding complications. She bills an established office visit with a diagnosis code reflecting the issue, example 676.40. These visits are usually denied as being included in the post-partum period. I am new to OB coding.

Any suggestions on more appropriate coding that would be considered by insurers?

Thank you

 

[ajgibson]

I believe the office visit code should have a -79 modifier on it, for "Unrelated service by the same provider in a postoperative period".

 

[Lor-N]

I would use a mod 24 for unrelated e/m services during global. Mod 79 is for an unrelated procedure. Also, be sure to specifiy your dx to postpartum, instead of unspecified - 676.44.

Lauren, CPC, COBGC