Wiki MFM Exam Elements

[Noelle3477]

Since MFM normally focuses on the fetus, can examination/HPI elements be combined for mother and fetus to achieve a higher E/M level?

 

[MFMcoder]

Don't Code for higher reimbursement

In MFM the "examination" of the fetus is the ultrasound(s). If mom has current, personal or family history of a condition(s) an examination related to the situation would be appropriate. After the initial patient exam, you would not due a subsequent exam of systems/body areas that are not complicating the pregnancy. If your practitioner is using time based exams, perhaps try "bullet" methods of the 95 or 97 guidelines to see if the different documentation systems are to an advantage. No practioner should ever perform a service if it is not medically necessary or to get a higher reimbursement for services that were not provided.