Wiki Lcsw & md

[sherriev]

If you have LCSWs and LPCCs in the same clinic as MDs and APRNs, and patients see the LCSWs and LPCCs prior to seeing an MD, can the MD bill a new patient E/M level? Originally, I did not think so but now I'm confused and I do not know for sure which is right. Any thoughts? I'd appreciate any guidance.

 

[thomas7331]

LCSWs and LPCCs are not medical providers and do not share a specialty with an MD or APRN (and also cannot perform or bill E&M services), so a visit with one of those providers would not establish the patient. If the patient is new to the MD/APRN and to that provider's specialty within the clinic, then the initial E/M would be a new patient, unless the payer policy directs otherwise.