Final answer:
The best fit for a comprehensive new patient office visit is code 99205. However, it is crucial that the E&M code reflects the documented service level and that additional codes for radiologic exams and splint applications are used as needed for billing purposes. Option c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct code for a new patient who receives a foot x-ray, ankle x-ray, splint application, and a diagnosis of a third distal phalanx fracture is options A. 99215, B. 99214, C. 99205, D. 99204, or E. 99203. These codes belong to the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) system, which is used to code medical procedures for billing purposes. Among these, the most comprehensive code for a new patient office visit that may involve a highly detailed and comprehensive history or examination, and a high level of medical decision making would be C. 99205.
However, it's critical to note that the CPT code for the evaluation and management (E&M) service provided must be selected according to the actual level of service provided and documented in the patient's medical record. On the other hand, specific codes also exist for radiologic examinations and splint applications that would need to be used for the foot and ankle x-ray and the splint application respectively, separate from the E&M code.