COC Evaluation and Management Coding 2

Question 1

Which modifier is appended to an E/M code to indicate the service is unrelated to a postoperative period?

Accepted Answer

-24

Answer

-25

Answer

-57

Answer

-58

Question 2

What distinguishes a consultation from a new patient visit in E/M coding?

Accepted Answer

Consultations require a request from another provider and a written report back

Answer

Consultations are only for specialist physicians

Answer

New patient visits always use lower-level codes

Answer

Consultations do not count toward global period

Question 3

Under the 2021 E/M guidelines, which level of MDM corresponds to a straightforward problem with minimal data and minimal risk?

Accepted Answer

Straightforward

Answer

Low

Answer

Moderate

Answer

High

Question 4

An established patient is seen in the office, and the physician makes an independent interpretation of an EKG during the visit. How is this reflected in MDM?

Accepted Answer

Counted as data reviewed under the 'amount and/or complexity of data' element

Answer

Reported as a separate CPT code only

Answer

Counted under risk

Answer

Does not affect MDM level

Question 5

Which scenario best supports reporting modifier -57 with an E/M code?

Accepted Answer

E/M the same day as decision for major surgery

Answer

E/M during a minor procedure global period

Answer

E/M unrelated to postoperative care

Answer

E/M for a new patient requiring preventive care

Question 6

For office E/M codes, which of the following is NOT a recognized category of problems under the 2021 MDM guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Chronic illness with only marginal follow-up

Answer

Acute, uncomplicated illness

Answer

Stable chronic illness with treatment adjustment

Answer

Undiagnosed new problem with uncertain prognosis