Complete Guide to GI Modifier 59 Billing and Reimbursement Rules
Gastroenterology billing is not as simple as it seems. And this is mostly because many GI procedures involve both diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic treatment during the same patient visit. This, however, makes procedural coding not only more complex than in many other specialties but also harder to get faster reimbursement. In fact, one of the most carefully monitored coding elements in this area is Modifier 59, widely known as the distinct procedural service modifier. As a gastroenterologist, you must be well aware that applying modier 59 can be quite tricky. Nevertheless, when you use modifier 59 appropriately, it helps providers receive accurate reimbursement for services that are genuinely separate; however, any incorrect or unnecessary use remains one of the most common reasons for claim denials. Also, here payment delays and payer audits can be other reasons for incorrect use of these modifiers. Thus, a complete understanding of how Modifier 59 works comes as handy in gastroe...