The Most Significant Changes Made to E/M Coding in a Quarter Century

December 20, 2020

In late 2019, the American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) Editorial Panel issued new coding guidance for office and other outpatient evaluation and management (E/M) services.

The changes are included in the CPT 2021 code set, and are among the most significant changes made to E/M coding guidance in a quarter century. In developing the new guidance, the CPT Editorial Panel sought to reduce administrative burden; clarify and expand relevant definitions and guidelines; decrease the need for unnecessary or duplicative documentation; and ensure physicians have relevant options for code level selection.

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