Understanding Modifier 24 – Ophthalmology Management

Confusion continues about when it is appropriate to use modifier 24 and other modifiers following surgery. This month I will attempt to clear up some of the mystery.

This article answers the following questions:

• Are all exams during the postoperative period included in the global surgical fee?
• What does modifier 24 mean?
• What does “unrelated” mean in this context?
• May modifier 24 be used to report the decision to perform cataract surgery in the opposite eye?
• Will utilization of modifier 24 trigger a postpayment audit?
• Should modifier 24 be used to report a diagnostic test in the global surgery period?
• What other modifiers pertain to surgery in the global period?

This article was published in Ophthalmology Management’s Coding & Reimbursement column, which is written by Corcoran’s Executive Vice-President, Suzanne Corcoran, COE. To view the entire article in Ophthalmology Management, click on the link below:

http://www.ophthalmologymanagement.com/article.aspx?article=102566