November 11, 2021

Question:
We saw a patient in the office for a peritonsillar abscess then sent them to the ED/OR for incision and drainage on the same day. What modifier do I need to use?

Answer:
You’ll use the appropriate E/M code with modifier 25 because the I&D code, 42700,has a 10-day global period and is considered a “minor” procedure by Medicare for modifier utilization.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 11/11/21.