tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2004 Issue 9

Reader Question: Check CPT for Modifier -51 Exemptions

  Question: Do I have to use modifier -51 every time I code a visit in which the internist performs multiple procedures? Hawaii SubscriberAnswer: No. There is a complete list of modifier -51 (Multiple procedures) exempt codes in Appendix E of CPT 2004. The list is "a summary of CPT codes that are exempt from the use of modifier -51 but have not been designated as CPT add-on procedures/services," according to CPT. These modifier -51 exempt codes are also recognizable within the code listings of CPT; just look for a "circle with a slash" symbol to the left...

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