Question

indicate the modifier that the surgeon would append to the surgical cpt code if this was an outpatient procedure

Answer 1

The correct modifier to append to a surgical CPT code for an outpatient procedure is typically '-OP', but it is important to consult current coding guidelines as these can differ or change.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student is asking about the modifier that should be used when a surgical procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. In the context of the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, which are used to report medical, surgical, and diagnostic procedures and services, modifiers provide additional information about the service or procedure performed. The appropriate modifier for outpatient services is typically -52 for reduced services or -53 for discontinued services, depending on the circumstances. However, the most commonly used outpatient modifier to indicate that a procedure was performed in an outpatient setting is -OP. It's important to check with current coding guidelines as these can change over time.