Use of CPT® 99420?

Could someone please explain how this code should be used? I work for a Family Practice and my provider would like to bill this when doing MMSE (Mini Mental Status Exam) for medicare patients at their annual wellness exam. This test is done on healthy patients during their physical without dx of Alzheimer's, depression, dementia, etc. I believe we cannot bill for the MMSE because it is included in the evaluation and management code?

re: Use of CPT® 99420?

I put the codes in my CCI edits software and it says it can be billed togther.
I used 99215 and 99420.

re: Use of CPT® 99420?

Why would you use 99420 when medicare covers G0444 annual depression screening? it's an included component of the Initial Annual Wellness, but can be billed in addition to the subsequent Wellness visits (provided the screening tool is utilized).

re: Use of CPT® 99420?

It should be noted that 99420 has a Medicare status indicator of N, which means it is not payable.

re: Use of CPT® 99420?

It is extremely doubtful that your doctor is actually doing an MMSE if your doctor is primary care. Never trust the pharmaceutical reps that give you a form and tell you to have the patient complete it as it is an MMSE as an MMSE requires a psych to interpret and your doc spend an hour.

I recently taught a webinar on the AWV and how to bill for the cognitive testing - so you should check out one of the computerized testing companies. I've been using Cognitrax for my clients and set up alot of doctors with it.

Don