AmandaW
Guru
In the ER, would every presenting diagnosis at least be 3 points?
What if it is a "minor or self-limiting" problem but new problem to the Dr?
What if it is a "minor or self-limiting" problem but new problem to the Dr?
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Wiki New problem to examiner?
- Thread starter AmandaW
- Start date
jimbo1231
Expert
New Problem
Amanada,
By definition of the unscheduled nature of ED visits, a very high % of ED visits are new problem to examiner, also an entirely new record is created for each visit. But you have to be a bit careful to assume it's always the case. Patients do return for follow up visits sometimes, and there are frequent fliers who came back day after day with similar problems or seeking drugs. But even then it could be a new problem to the particular provider. There are no "Established" ED patients by CPT definition. But that's a separate issue!
Jim
Amanada,
By definition of the unscheduled nature of ED visits, a very high % of ED visits are new problem to examiner, also an entirely new record is created for each visit. But you have to be a bit careful to assume it's always the case. Patients do return for follow up visits sometimes, and there are frequent fliers who came back day after day with similar problems or seeking drugs. But even then it could be a new problem to the particular provider. There are no "Established" ED patients by CPT definition. But that's a separate issue!
Jim
nomerz
Networker
I bill for ER physicians and we consider every patient "new"
jimbo1231
Expert
New?
I think that's pushing it a bit. But the argument is made that there are no Established patients and a new record and work up are required. But I'd draw the line on a planned follow up for an injury or someone returning later with exactly the same problem. Just my view.
Jim
I think that's pushing it a bit. But the argument is made that there are no Established patients and a new record and work up are required. But I'd draw the line on a planned follow up for an injury or someone returning later with exactly the same problem. Just my view.
Jim