Wiki E/M 3 key components vs. time??

[1071471]

Hi All,

Let's say the 3 key components qualify for 99214, but the time documented at the bottom of the note qualifies for 99213 (i.e. "I spent 20 minutes with this patient and greater than 50% was spent in counseling the patient regarding delaying maintenace therapy #1 pending improved ANC counts")

Would you code a 99214 based on the elements OR would you code 99213 based on time??? Keep in mind that time can be considered the key or controlling factor.

I look forward to your feedback!!!!

 

[renifejn]

No, code based on what the documentation levels out to be.

 

[Walker22]

If the time spent in counseling is greater than 50% of the time spent during the visit, then you may choose to use time as a basis for coding. You do not have to. Therefore if the components add up to a greater level than the time spent, by all means use the higher code!

 

[Lisa Bledsoe]

I agree with Walker22 and renifejn.