New CPT Changes for 2021

E/M CPT Changes coming January 1st 2021
 
Here’s a list of some of the changes that are coming soon that all providers must be aware of.

Reduction in the number of service levels to 4 from 5. New patients (5 levels of service are retained for Established Patients) 

• Elimination of History and Exam as required elements of code selection.
• Medical decision-making  or time will be used to determine the level of E/M visits.

• CPT 99201 will be deleted. Only 99202-99205 for new patients and 99211-99215 will be used for established patients. The time requirements for each of the levels has changed as well. Example: In 2020 CPT 99214 was typically 25 minutes spent face to face with the patient/and or family. That's changing to 30-39 minutes of total time is spent on the date of the encounter.

 
In terms of best practice, providers should still continue to perform clinically relevant H&Ps, but will NOT influence code selection.
 
Be prepared to continue to document to the highest specificity and make sure that time is documented appropriately. 
 
Keep in mind that AMA could always update and make additional changes as needed and you’ll want to make sure you’re informed when they do. If you’re interested in learning more feel free to contact us for quick step by step tools and additional information to help you along in these new changes.