We always find our clients assuming they can’t bill for anything in the post operative global period. They automatically book the appointment as a follow-up, and then state “post op, no charge.”
Many procedures have a Zero or Ten day global period. The doctor can’t be expected to know all of these, that’s our job! With each procedure billed in the post operative period we will always check what the global period is. If its Zero days, well then you can bill it and you don’t need any modifiers. And yes, even if it’s the same diagnosis as the surgery.
Keep in mind that what you were reimbursed for that surgery did not include the cost of your post operative services and you will be leaving money on the table if someone is not diligent about this…especially if you’re a surgical practice.
Now, let’s say that same patient books an appointment within the global period of a surgery that is not a follow-up but is an unrelated problem. Just because it’s within the global timeframe doesn’t mean you can’t bill for your service. Use the modifier 24 that tells the payer that this is an unrelated service provided by the same physician during the post operative period. And yes, this time the diagnosis does have to be different than the surgical one.
Our billing service is ALL about making the client the most money possible within regulatory and coding guidelines. Even the smallest practice can be profitable and have the cash flow needed to run the practice if you pay attention to the details. It’s all about keeping costs down and revenues up. We pride ourselves in helping you do that. We are here to help you, feel free to give us a call about this, or any other billing related aspects of your practice, please call us toll-free at 1.877.666.5279. We are always happy to help and you are never under any obligation!
We look forward to hearing from you so, go ahead and, “Take Advantage”!!
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