Wiki Modifier 82 - Please define modifer 82

[dgilman]

Please define modifer 82. What constitutes a "qualified resident surgeon"? Who would then qualify as the "assistant surgeon" if the resident surgeon is not in attendance for a surgical procedure?

 

[OCD_coder]

Source:Optum book, Understanding Modifiers 2013, page 88.

In order to report modifier 82, the academic department is required to have a signed attestation form on file validating that no qualified residents are available.

Any MD or DO or equal professional would qaulify as an assistant surgeon only. A midlevel would not qualify.

Hope that clears up the confusion for you.