2008 modifier revisions

Modifier 22 will be revamped to say it should be used for "increased procedural services." The new description says modifier 22 may be used when the work required is "substantially" greater than usually required. CPT also notes that this modifier should not be used on an E/M service.

Modifier 59 has been changed to remove any reference to "physician" and replaces it with "individual". This reflects the increased use of this code by non-physician practitioners.

Modifier 78 description has been lengthened to read "unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician following initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period."


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