Question

mr. flintstone is seen by his oncologist just two days after undergoing extensive testing for a sudden onset of petechiae, night sweats, swollen glands and weakness. after a brief review of history, dr. b. marrow re - examines mr. flintstone. the exam is documented and the medical decision making is of moderate complexity and takes 11 minutes. the oncologist spends an additional 45 minutes discussing mr. flintstones new diagnosis of hodgkins lymphoma, treatment options and prognosis. what cpt® coding is reported?
o 99253
o 99215, 99417
o 99204, 99354
o 99215, 99354

Explanation:

CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes are used to report medical, surgical, and diagnostic services. When a physician - patient encounter involves moderate complexity decision - making and time spent on counseling and/or coordination of care, specific codes are applicable. In this case, 99215 is typically used for established patients with high - complexity medical decision - making and significant time spent. Since the encounter includes a new diagnosis and discussion of treatment and prognosis with moderate complexity and a certain amount of time spent, 99215 is appropriate. The other codes do not match the described encounter characteristics as well.

Answer:

99215