In my practice, I would like to be able to offer virtual visits (e-visits, phone only visits, and phone-video visits). Although I generally prefer in-clinic visits, the ability to be flexible with the use of technology allows for thorough appointments and follow-ups in a variety of circumstances.
I’m writing this article in March of 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and during the current state stay-at-home mandate. At this time, many insurance companies have expanded coverage and waived patient cost-sharing for telephone and video visits.
However, it is uncertain when there will be a resumption of normal activities. For this reason, I would like to encourage my patients to call their insurance companies directly to inquire about coverage and copay for telemedicine visits, especially once the current exceptions are no longer in effect.
Please specifically ask about the following codes:
Telephone only visits
99441
99442
99443
Electronic visits (back and forth over the portal, email or text discussing a specific issue)
99421
99422
99423
Telephone and video visits (Important to include the noted MODIFIER)
99212 modifier 95
99213 modifier 95
99214 modifier 95
99215 modifier 95
Please note, this does not mean that I will be charging you / your insurance company for every communication. This is specifically to address electronic visits, phone visits, or audio-visual visits that replaces an office visit. Furthermore, if we have a telemedicine visit of any type and my recommendation is that an in-office evaluation is needed for that same issue, with myself or urgent care/ER, you/your insurance would not be billed for the telemedicine visit.
As always, please contact me with any questions or concerns.
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