Medical Billing Forum

Coding => Coding => : slmoyer09 October 20, 2011, 12:08:04 PM

: Coding for hospital patient
: slmoyer09 October 20, 2011, 12:08:04 PM
Is there a code and or modifier to use for the following situation:  Physician called to hospital for consultation on patient.  Physician reviewed medical records and films/x-rays on patient before actually seeing patient.  When physician went to patients room for consult, patient refused to see physician.  Can we code for time physician reviewed patient hx and films, and if so, what would coding be? 
: Re: Coding for hospital patient
: Michele October 21, 2011, 10:32:58 AM
I am not a coder but I believe that the inpatient hospital codes are for time spent WITH the patient AND time spent ON the patient (charting, reviewing test results/xrays, consulting with nurses/family/other physicians).  Please double check as I am not a coder, but I believe even though the dr only spent a moment with the patient finding out they refused his services he may still be able to bill inpatient E&M code.  (BUT DOUBLE CHECK!)