Wiki Low Complexity versus Moderate Complexity

[brittburkhardt]

I just finished a practice exam from AAPC and I would appreciate a bit more clarification on the answer if possible!

If the physician documented a detailed history, comprehensive examination and a medical decision making of moderate complexity, how is the correct E/M code 99221 when the description states low complexity? Is low and moderate interchangeable? I thought the correct code would be 99222.

 

[Chelle-Lynn]

You noted:

* History = Detailed
* Exam= Comp
* MDM - Moderate

99222 requires all 3 key components

* History = Comp
* Exam = Comp
* MDM = Moderate

Because of the detailed history this would lower to a 99221 as not all 3 components were met. Subsequent care only requires 2 of the 3.