CPT code 98016 refers to a brief check-in with your doctor using technology like a phone call or video chat. CPT 98016 represents “Brief communication technology-based service (eg, virtual check-in) by a physician or other qualified health care professional who can report evaluation and management services, provided to an established patient, not originating from a related evaluation and management service provided within the previous 7 days nor leading to an evaluation and management service or procedure within the next 24 hours or soonest available appointment, 5-10 minutes of medical discussion”.
Procedure Explanation:
This service involves a short discussion, usually lasting between 5 to 10 minutes, with a healthcare professional to address any health concerns. It’s designed for quick follow-ups with patients who already have a medical history with the doctor. It’s not used for issues that have been dealt with in the past week or for problems that will soon require a full medical appointment or procedure.
Common Names:
- Virtual Check-in
- Telehealth Quick Consult
- Remote Brief Evaluation
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.3.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: This code does not typically appear on an operating room schedule as it’s not a surgical procedure.
- Surgical Consent Form Name: “Virtual Check-in” would be used if consent is needed, though it’s usually too minor of a procedure for formal consent.
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used by patients who need a bit of health-related advice without needing to visit the clinic in person. For example, someone experiencing mild symptoms they want to discuss with their doctor or follow-up on recent test results might use this service.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- Z71.1: This code indicates a person is receiving health advice without any current symptoms or illnesses.
- Z03.89: Used when a patient is being evaluated for a possible condition, but no specific illness is confirmed.
- R68.89: Represents other general symptoms that aren’t categorized elsewhere, like fatigue.
Summary
In summary, code 98016 describes a short, remote conversation with a healthcare provider, designed for existing patients to discuss minor issues quickly. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 98016 include Z71.1 (for seeking health advice) and Z03.89 (for evaluation of potential issues without a specific diagnosis).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.