TIPS ***CODING CPT*** TIPS

1. Read the guidelines at the beginning of each main section of the book
2. Read the notes throughout the Medicine, Anesthesia, Surgery, Radiology, and Pathology sections.
3. Use the index at the back of the book to find a specific item by generalized code numbers, NOT by page numbers. Listings are by six categories: procedures or services, organs, conditions, synonyms, eponyms, and abbreviations. If the procedure performed is not listed, check for the organ involved. If the procedure or organ is difficult to locate, look up the condition. Key words, such as synonyms or eponyms, and abbreviations will help you locate the appropriate code.
4. Locate the code number in the code section and read through the description to locate the most appropriate number to apply to the patient’s procedure.
5. Transfer the descriptor wording and five-digit code number to the claim form.
6. Add the two-digit add-on modifiers or separate five-digit numbers representing the modifiers whenever they are required.

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