Main description:

CPT (R) E/M (Evaluation and Management) codes are changing significantly for office visits for the 2021 code set year. This quick reference guide provides a side-by-side comparison of evaluation and management (E/M) codes. Easy to use, each table summarizes the requirements for reporting E/M services and helps the user select and validate proper E/M coding.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have just issued the 2020 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule which includes a provision that will have a significant impact on coding. The purpose of the provision is to reduce the administrative burden on physicians-an outcome that the American Medical Association has worked with many leading healthcare organizations to achieve. It does this by changing a part of the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT (R)) code set known as the Evaluation and Management (E/M) Office Visit codes. The new codes go into effect on January 1, 2021.

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

E/M 2021 code changes

new guidelines on the updated codes for office or other outpatient and prolonged services section incorporated
18 E/M tables summarizing the key components and contributory factors requirements for reporting E/M services saves time by giving an overall look at reporting requirements of frequently used codes.
Required key components such as history, examination, and complexity of medical decision making to help the selection of level of E/M services.
Contributory factors such as the severity of presenting problem, counseling, and coordination of care during patient encounter are listed to help proper reporting and coding of these services when provided.
The final component of time, such as bedside/unit/floor time are included as well to help in proper code selection.