It is critical to use modifiers effectively and adequately to file accurate claims and get proper reimbursements. Modifiers assist surgeons inefficiently in achieving the payment policy standards set by insurers. Amongst the most common GI code errors is inappropriate modifier usage. When the same surgeon performs multiple procedures in the same operational setting, there is often ambiguity over whether to apply modifier 51 (Multiple procedures) or modifier 59 (Single system).
Multiple Procedure Modifier 51
The 51 modifiers must be used when multiple operations are done at the same session by the same person,’ according to CPT rules. The additional service can be identified by connecting this modifier to different processes or service codes. To effectively bill for this modifier, accurate coding must consider the RVU of the completed CPT. Multiple operations were performed simultaneously within the same surgical session.
Diagnostic Imaging Services are provided on the same day by the same operator subject to the Multiple Procedure Payment Reduction.
Modifier 51 indicates that a clinician conducted two or more medical assistances during a single treatment session. The modifier would be applied to any additional operations that were carried out. However, qualifications for the “main” process code with modifier 51 may vary from what you understand about using other modifiers. To properly report this modifier, the coder must first list the process with the greatest RVU (highest paying) and then use the modifier on the following service(s) with lower RVU (lowest paying).
Appropriate use
- The same physician conducts more than one surgical service (Indicator 2).
- The Several Procedure Payment Reduction (MPPR) rule applies to the technological portion of multiple diagnostic procedures (Indicator 4).
- The many surgical operations are performed on the same day but invoiced separately.
- The surgical procedure code represents the lower physician fee schedule value.
- The diagnostic procedure that has a smaller technical component charge the scheduled amount.
Inappropriate use
- Add-on codes should not be appended.
- Do not notify on all service areas.
- Do not add when two or more physicians execute discrete, unrelated procedures on the same patient on the same day.
Additional information
- Medicare pays for several procedures in descending order from the highest to lowest physician billing amount.
- 100% of the highest physician fee schedule amount 50% of the physician fee schedule value for each of the remaining codes
- Medicare will send the claim information containing Modifier 51 to the secondary insurance company.
- Pricing for many surgeries also applies to helpers at surgery services.
- Bilateral services (modifier 50) done on the same day as other procedures are subject to multiple surgery charges.
Recognizing the correct and suitable use of modifier 51 is critical to filing accurate claims, which will lead to proper payment. The 51 modifier allows us to categorize medical services with the most significant degree of possible details and ensures that the physician is paid appropriately for that service. However, it’s critical to stay updated on the most current payer standards for adding modifiers, especially modifier 51. The criteria for applying the 51 modifiers may differ according to your state or locality, so it’s essential to stay up to date on any forthcoming changes in payer regulations to keep claims rejections and a healthy cash flow for your clinic.
Suppose your clinic is seeing frequent occurrences of medical billing denial or rejection. In that case, the problem is most likely not with your carrier but with the use of obsolete coding or inadequate documentation. If your medical billing isn’t generating the money it should, it’s time to talk to a medical billing partner about getting reimbursed for your services. Outsource your services to Billing Executive as we have more than 10 years of experience in US Medical Billing and hands-on experience in claim reimbursements.
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