Question

some CPT codes have the words bilateral or "unilateral or bilateral" in the descriptions. as such these CPT codes have already been labeled as bilateral. therefore no modifier is needed.

Answer 1

The question addresses the use of CPT codes, specifically noting that codes with 'bilateral' or 'unilateral or bilateral' included in the description do not require an additional bilateral modifier for billing purposes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to CPT codes and how they should be properly used when billing for medical procedures, especially in relation to bilateral procedures. When a CPT code includes the term 'bilateral' or 'unilateral or bilateral' within its description, it indicates that the code accounts for both sides being addressed during the procedure, which means that no additional modifier is needed to convey this to the insurer. This built-in descriptor simplifies the billing process and prevents the need for a separate bilateral modifier, which is usually represented by modifier -50.

It is important for medical coders and billing professionals to understand the nuances of CPT codes to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement. For codes that do not have 'bilateral' in their description, modifier -50 may indeed be necessary to specify that a procedure was performed on both sides of the body.