Wiki Modifier 52, did I miss something?

[LLovett]

I just did the on demand education for 2013 Pediatric coding updates. Per the presenter and then later in the the quiz, if a child is intolerable and the physician decides to discontinue the visit you add 52 to your E/M.

When did this happen?

Question 7
A 2 year old child is seen, however the physician is unable to complete the exam as the patient's behavior was intolerable. Which modifier would be used?

A. 24
B. 25
C. 52
D. 57

Thanks for any insight,

Laura, CPC, CPMA, CEMC

 

[mitchellde]

The 52 modifier cannot be applied to an E&M this rule has never changed .. I would challenge the presenter to supply you with the ruling showing this has changed. you charge the E&M based on what was done not on what was planned and not accomplished.

 

[hmagao]

Modifier 52, as most modifiers, are for procedures.