jennamiller
Networker
So I am coding Pain Management. My physician performed a LESI 62311 & SI Inj. 27096, used fluro..... I have gotten feedback from peers that they have been appending -59 to the 27096. In efforts for this thread NOT to get lengthy, I am wondering if someone can help with the definition of -59. I know it is a modifier that can be used to bypass edits. Although there is no edit for (column 1)62311, (column 2)27096 but there is a edit for (column 1)27096,(column 2)62311. If anyone can elaborate on the edits that would be great. But my main concern is why would these two codes warrent the use of -59? Are they not already distinct from each other. I have 2 seperate op reports, they are two seperate site (which isn't it self explainatory for the codes I am reporting?), they have two seperate dx. I am reallly not wanting the "depends on the payer answer" I am wanting a clear definition of when to use -59. Like there is one huh? If coders are using -59 to appended all distinct pocedures, wouldn't that get into the abuse of that modifier and posssible flag an audit? PLEASE HELP!!!!!