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When to use E&M codes?

dianadawn

Member
I am a student and still, after 2 months, I cant get a grip on E&M which is the last chapter in my studies. How do I know when I need to use an E&M code? There are so many instances to use them, ER, General office visit... This is by far the hardest to learn for me. If I had known it would be this hard, I wouldnt have even picked this career. Any help is greatly appreciated!
 

Ruth Sheets

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I'm sure you will get it before long. Don't give up now! As far as when do you need to use an E&M code: it's basically when the patient presents and the doctor needs to figure out what the patient needs. This is different than when the patient presents because it was already decided that they will have a certain type of treatment. Remember E & M stands for Evaluation and Management, so the physician needs to evaluate the patient then manage the care. However, there are special services that may not seem to fit my description of finding out what the patient needs, such as physician standby services. It is important to be aware of the different types of services and location that have E&M codes.
 

Carmen

Carmen Butler, CPC
Relax Dianadawn, I was once in the same boat and what helped me the most, is the way Laureen explains step by step E&M. If you follow her technique you will get it....Now I love E&M. Anytime I find someone who has trouble with this subject, I am so happy to be of help. I am still learning , don't get me wrong, but once you learn how to identify the key components, things will start to make sense. Also, utilize Appendix C for a little help...Good luck
 

Ruth Sheets

CCO Moderator
Staff member
Administrator
Moderator
Blitzer
PBC Student (CPC®)
CCO Club Member
CCO Support Staff
MTA Student
ICD-10-CM Student
PPM Student (CPPM®)
FBC Student (CPC-H®)
CCO's Understand E&M Step by Step Guide is available for free download on this webpage. Also if you haven't tried the EM University, that is another source that might help you make it all click. https://learn.emuniversity.com/ They have a free course which is a preview of the basic course, and the whole basic course is available for $21.99.

These are some tools that will give you a fresh look at this material. Often that is the ticket to making it work for you. Carmen is right, you will "get" E&M!
 
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