CPCA Modifier Use in Dermatology 4

Question 1

When a dermatologist performs a simple repair of a wound that is separate from an excision site during the same session, which scenario MOST accurately describes billing?

Accepted Answer

Simple repairs are bundled into the excision code; only intermediate or complex repairs may be billed separately

Answer

Per CPT bundling rules, simple (linear) closures are included in excision codes; intermediate or complex repairs at a different site may be billed separately.

Question 2

A patient has a staged excision: the first stage is performed today and the second stage is planned. Which modifier is used for the second stage?

Accepted Answer

Modifier 58

Answer

Modifier 58 indicates a staged or related procedure performed during the postoperative period of the initial procedure.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the use of modifier 47 in dermatology?

Accepted Answer

Anesthesia by the operating surgeon

Answer

Modifier 47 indicates that regional or general anesthesia was provided by the operating surgeon, not a separate anesthesiologist.

Question 4

A dermatopathologist performs a histologic examination of two separately submitted skin specimens from the same patient. How is this billed?

Accepted Answer

Two units of the pathology code are billed without a modifier

Answer

Each separately submitted specimen is billed as a separate unit of the pathology code; modifier 59 is not required when separate containers are submitted.

Question 5

Modifier 76 in dermatology is used when:

Accepted Answer

The same physician repeats the same procedure on the same day

Answer

Modifier 76 is appended when the same physician repeats the same procedure or service on the same date.

CPCA Exam Practice Test

CPCA Exam Practice Test

CPCA Modifier Use in Dermatology 4