Prolonged services are add-on codes reported in addition to one of the designated E/M codes listed in the parenthetical instructions after each code.

Prolonged services are add-on codes reported in addition to one of the designated E/M codes listed in the parenthetical instructions after each code.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only for pediatric cases
• D. Only for discharge cases

Answer: (A)

Prolonged services are add-on CPT codes that are reported in addition to a designated E/M code. The parenthetical instructions after each E/M code specify these add-on codes, so you bill the base E/M service and attach the appropriate prolonged-service code when the encounter lasts longer than the typical time. For example, the first extra 30 minutes is reported with a specific add-on code, and each additional 30 minutes uses another add-on code, with similar codes for inpatient encounters. This pairing rule—base E/M code plus prolonged-service add-on codes shown in the code’s instructions—is why the statement is true. They’re not limited to pediatric or discharge cases.

Prolonged services are add-on CPT codes that are reported in addition to a designated E/M code. The parenthetical instructions after each E/M code specify these add-on codes, so you bill the base E/M service and attach the appropriate prolonged-service code when the encounter lasts longer than the typical time. For example, the first extra 30 minutes is reported with a specific add-on code, and each additional 30 minutes uses another add-on code, with similar codes for inpatient encounters. This pairing rule—base E/M code plus prolonged-service add-on codes shown in the code’s instructions—is why the statement is true. They’re not limited to pediatric or discharge cases.