I have seen coders use 99221 for an initial visit (consulting) for an inpt. encounter when requested by the admitting physician. CPT Guidelines for 99221 states …. By the admitting physician…" and that if the physician is not the admitting physician, they are to use 99251-99255 or 99231-99233. My question is: Is it appropriate to use 99221 for a physician who is requested to do a consultation for a patient (that is an inpatient) who is not the admitting physician?
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