COC Modifiers and Their Application 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which modifier is appended to a CPT code to indicate that a procedure was performed on the right side of the body?
- -LT
- -RT (Correct answer)
- -50
- -51
Correct answer: -RT
Modifier -RT (Right Side) is used to indicate a procedure was performed on the right side of the body.
Question 2: Modifier -25 is used to indicate:
- A repeat procedure by the same physician
- A significant, separately identifiable E/M service on the same day as a procedure (Correct answer)
- A procedure performed by two surgeons
- Reduced services were provided
Correct answer: A significant, separately identifiable E/M service on the same day as a procedure
Modifier -25 indicates that a significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service was provided by the same physician on the same day as a procedure or other service.
Question 3: Which modifier indicates that a procedure was discontinued after the patient was prepped and taken to the procedure room but before administration of anesthesia?
- -52
- -53
- -73 (Correct answer)
- -74
Correct answer: -73
Modifier -73 is used for discontinued outpatient/ambulatory surgery center procedures prior to administration of anesthesia.
Question 4: Modifier -51 should NOT be appended to which type of codes?
- Add-on codes
- Evaluation and management codes
- Both add-on codes and E/M codes (Correct answer)
- Radiology codes
Correct answer: Both add-on codes and E/M codes
Modifier -51 (Multiple Procedures) must not be appended to designated add-on codes or to codes listed as modifier -51 exempt, which includes E/M codes.
Question 5: A surgeon performs a bilateral procedure. Which modifier is appended to identify it as bilateral?
- -50 (Correct answer)
- -51
- -52
- -53
Correct answer: -50
Modifier -50 is used to report bilateral procedures performed during the same operative session.
Question 6: Which modifier indicates that a service or procedure has been reduced or eliminated at the physician's discretion?
- -22
- -52 (Correct answer)
- -53
- -59
Correct answer: -52
Modifier -52 (Reduced Services) is used when a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the physician's election.
Question 7: Modifier -59 is used to indicate:
- Increased procedural service
- A distinct procedural service (Correct answer)
- Staged or related procedure by the same physician
- Unrelated E/M service by the same physician
Correct answer: A distinct procedural service
Modifier -59 identifies a distinct procedural service that is not normally reported together but is appropriate under the circumstances.
COC Modifiers and Their Application 1
Which modifier is appended to a CPT code to indicate that a procedure was performed on the right side of the body?