I am new at E&M coding. There is a confusion at our office (esp. requesting authorization) whether to bill E&M as new vs est patient. A patient had an ultrasound at our office and the doctor interpreted the report (with no face-to-face with patient). Then, patient returned for another ultrasound and this time, the doctor had a face-to-face with a patient. Does this mean the patient is established? or does this visit still considered as a new patient visit?

Thank you,

Grace, CPC