Coding Changes – 2023 Here We Come!

Author: Rebecca Hockaday, MBA, CPC, Compliance Manager

The most recent significant changes to the E&M coding guidelines occurred in 2021 allowing physicians to choose between medical decision-making and time-based reporting for their services.  Now, it appears we are in store for additional changes to begin January 2023.  The changes will be centered around code sets including inpatient and observation care services, consultations, emergency department services, and nursing facility services. Below is a summary of some of the proposed changes published by the AMA CPT Editorial Summary (February 2021).

It is helpful to regularly check the AMA website as they are expected to announce the final changes taking effect in January 2023 by the end of the summer. Planning and preparing for the changes will enable providers to better understand and be ready to implement.  Additionally, there will be changes to many definitions as well as guidelines within the codes.

Source: https://www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2021-03/february-2021-summary-panel-actions.pdf