Forum - Questions & Answers
Modifier 57
Can modifier 57 be added to only E/M service resulting the initial surgery decision on the day of, or the day before major procedure? For example, it can not be added to E/M service resulting the major surgery 3 days before major surgery?
Thanks in advance
re: Modifier 57
I can understand the need to append modifier -57 on an E/M on the day of or day prior to a major surgery as without appending the modifier, the service may be deemed inclusive to the surgical procedure hence the need for modifier-57. As for a visit resulting in major surgery three days prior to surgery, there is in my opinion no necessary need to append the modifier as the E/M is not inclusive to a global period however, I do not have issue with my providers appending the modifier in this instance as they meet definition of use which do not specify a time frame. Modififier: 57 DECISION FOR SURGERY: An evaluation and management service that resulted in the initial decision to perform the surgery may be identified by adding modifier 57 to the appropriate level of E/M service.
re: Modifier 57
Modifier -57 only on E/M when the decision to perform major surgery is made the day before or day of surgery, ONLY