Modifier 82 describes using an assistant surgeon when a qualified resident surgeon is unavailable. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of modifier 82, including its definition, when to use it, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, common mistakes, related modifiers, and tips for medical coders. 1. What is Modifier 82? Modifier 82 is an…
Modifier 80 indicates that an assistant surgeon was present during the entire procedure and performed under the direct supervision of the principal surgeon. This article will explore the definition, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, common mistakes, and related modifiers for modifier 80. 1. What is modifier 80? Modifier 80 describes the role of an…
Modifier 62 describes a situation where two surgeons work together as primary surgeons, each performing a distinct part of the procedure. 1. What is modifier 62? Modifier 62 indicates that two surgeons worked as primary surgeons, each performing a distinct part of the procedure. This modifier ensures that both surgeons are reimbursed for their work….
As the description implies, modifier 22 should not be reported with Evaluation and Management services. The official description of the 22 modifier is: “Increased Procedural Services.” The 22 modifier should only be reported with procedure codes that have a global period of 0, 10, 90 days, or YYY as identified on the Medicare Physician Fee…
Below, you can find a list of all the CPT modifiers. A modifier ‘modifies’ a procedure or item and adds information or changes a description based on the documentation provided by the physician. First, we’ll explain what modifiers are before providing the CPT modifiers list. CPT modifiers are added to CPT or HCPCS codes to…
Modifier 78 describes an unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician or other qualified health care professional the following the initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period. In this article, we will explain modifier 78, including its definition, when to use it, examples, documentation requirements, billing, common mistakes, other…
Modifier 79 describes an unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or another qualified healthcare professional during the postoperative period. It tells the payer that a procedure is unrelated to the initial surgery and should not be included in the surgical package payment for the initial procedure. 1. What is modifier 79? Modifier 79…
Modifier 81 describes the minimum assistant surgeon and indicates that an assistant surgeon assisted the principal surgeon during part of a procedure. 1. What is modifier 81? Modifier 81 indicates that an assistant surgeon assisted the principal surgeon during part of a procedure. The assistant surgeon performs under the direct supervision of the principal surgeon…
Modifier 74 describes a discontinued outpatient hospital or ambulatory surgery center procedure after the administration of anesthesia. In this article, we will explain modifier 74, including its definition, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, common mistakes, related modifiers, and additional tips for medical coders. 1. What is modifier 74? Modifier 74 indicates that a provider…
Modifier 73 describes a discontinued outpatient hospital or ambulatory surgery center procedure before the administration of anesthesia. 1. What is modifier 73? Modifier 73 indicates that a provider terminated a surgical or diagnostic procedure requiring anesthesia before administering anesthesia due to extenuating circumstances threatening the patient’s well-being. 2. When to use modifier 73? Modifier 73…
