Time can be an element of code selection for a variety of E/M services.

Time can be an element of code selection for a variety of E/M services.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not stated
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (A)

Time can be used as a basis for selecting many E/M codes, especially for office and outpatient visits. When the majority of the encounter is spent on counseling the patient and coordinating care, the CPT guidelines allow the coder to choose the code according to the total time spent on the date of the encounter. That total time includes both face-to-face interaction and related non‑face‑to‑face activities such as reviewing data, ordering tests, counseling, and documenting. This means the coding reflects the actual resources used, not just the traditional components of history, examination, and medical decision making. So the statement is true. While many E/M codes are based on history/physical/MDM, time-based coding is a legitimate and common method in a variety of E/M services.

Time can be used as a basis for selecting many E/M codes, especially for office and outpatient visits. When the majority of the encounter is spent on counseling the patient and coordinating care, the CPT guidelines allow the coder to choose the code according to the total time spent on the date of the encounter. That total time includes both face-to-face interaction and related non‑face‑to‑face activities such as reviewing data, ordering tests, counseling, and documenting. This means the coding reflects the actual resources used, not just the traditional components of history, examination, and medical decision making. So the statement is true. While many E/M codes are based on history/physical/MDM, time-based coding is a legitimate and common method in a variety of E/M services.