Medical Billing Forum
Billing => Billing => : KARREN December 13, 2010, 09:34:40 PM
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when billing this code should I attached a modifer.. 59?
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You cannot just add a modifier to a procedure based on the code. It must be added to a code if the circumstances surrounding the procedure warrant the modifier to explain the services further. The Modifier -59 is used to identify a distinct procedure that was performed in addition to a primary procedure. Your question only gives the code 76770 so there is no way to tell if the 59 modifier would be appropriate without knowing all of the details.
Only the provider, or a coder would be able to determine if the modifier should be added and they would have to indicate that. As a biller you don't want to just add the modifier to get the code paid. If an audit is done, it would be not good. :(
Michele