The working definition of what a split/shared visit is, has been the cause of many discussions in the past several years. CMS/Medicare had very specific points they needed addressed that the Guidelines in CPT did not cover. Items whether the two practitioners had to be in the same group, or if the practitioner who was the billing provider had to perform the substantive portion of the visit, or what locations split/shared visits were allowed at. There were two sets of rules or guidelines for these services between a physician and a nurse practitioner or physician assistant. In 2024, CPT redefined split/ shared visits with more clarity in their guidelines. CMS/Medicare announced they were following CPT Guidelines. They also announced use of the FT modifier is required for all these visits. CMS/Medicare have recently given the Medicare Administrative Contractors, some additional guidance for these visits, that may cause you to re-evaluate how your practice performs and documents these shared visits. Do you know about them?
Jill M Young is the Principal of Young Medical Consulting, LLC. A company founded 18 years ago to meet the education and compliance needs of physicians and their staff Jill has over 40 years of medical experience working in all areas of the medical practice including clinical, billing and rounding with physicians. Her unique style of working with physicians is not only effective but helps bridge the gap between coders and physicians from a practical perspective. Her comments and opinions can be seen in several publications and also heard on a variety of audio-conferences. Her background gives her a unique style of teaching using real life examples of coding and billing situations. She hates boring lectures, so be prepared for a presentation that is fast paced and informative.