Healthcare technology is evolving and now patients prefer the convenience and rapid treatment through digital tools. Gone are the days when patients only had the option to see their practitioner by visiting them at the clinic or hospital facility. In terms of innovation and functionality telehealth is the number one choice of patients and healthcare providers. With the inception of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth gained even more importance as visiting the hospital for check-ups was almost impossible due to the spread of the virus governments and doctors urged people to stay in and avoid human contact. Telehealth helped patients and providers connect through virtual sessions.
There are many coding options available when it comes to reporting telehealth visits. Medicare had relaxed security and privacy on telehealth sessions this also includes the office visit codes.
The telehealth codes available for Medicare
- Office codes (99201-99215) – These are office and codes for other outpatient visits.
- Virtual check-ins (G2012) – This code is for brief patient check-ins with the healthcare provider which lasts for 5 to 10 minutes using telecommunication tools, devices, or the telephone.
- E-visits (G2061-G2063) – This code is for online digital E/M service for a patient lasting for seven days.
- Face to face therapy (G0446) – This code is pertained to yearly face to face behavioral therapy that lasts for 15 minutes and cardiovascular disease.
- Alcohol misuse screening (G0442) – This code is for annual alcohol misuse screening lasting for 15 minutes.
Conclusion
You must be well aware and updated about the relevant codes that can be used for reimbursements. It is advised that medical practices document each visit by noting down the date, time, and duration of the encounter in your Electronic Medical Records (EMR) software system. It is also important that patient history and other exam details are also recorded. It’s always good to have updated and precise coding information. When you get the coding right you get paid.
