Coding > Coding
modifier 53 vs. modifier 73/74
PMRNC:
If you think about it you can't code it if it didn't happen, no services rendered. It would be the equivalent of billing a missed/cancelled appt. Maybe you can bill patient for time wasted. :) :) :)
Michele:
--- Quote from: PMRNC on March 16, 2014, 12:35:57 PM --- Maybe you can bill patient for time wasted. :) :) :)
--- End quote ---
That's what I was thinking. Put up a note or make them sign a form stating they will be personally responsible for $xxx.xx if the surgery must be cancelled do to:
1. illicit drug use
2. alcohol use
3. stupidity
4. all of the above
JK, You probably could get sued for that note. It would be discrimination against people with stupidity.
Merry:
Michele.. That was funny. Thx for the chuckle
Zipper:
Hi All!
New here.
Similar question- patient was on the table and ready to go. Surgery had to be cancelled at this point.
What should the 53 modifier be attached to? The procedure that I had planned on performing?
(I am a surgeon just now trying to learn the ins and outs of billing, so you all are most likely miles ahead of me in your knowledge of this subject matter.)
PMRNC:
You would only be able to use modifier 53 if they had underwent the induction of anesthesia, and only if the cancellation was due to the patient's well-being. You would append the modifier to the cpt of the surgical procedure. You might be asked for documentation which should consist of the following:
Procedure that was started or to be started
Documentation as to why the procedure was discontinued
Documentation on the percentage of the procedure was performed
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