Examples of When to Use Modifier XU
Currently, providers can use the -59 modifier to indicate that a code represents a service that is separate and distinct from another service with which it would usually be considered to be bundled. The primary issue associated with the -59 modifier is that it is defined for use in a wide variety of circumstances, such as a use to identify different encounters, different anatomic sites, and distinct services. Usage to identify a separate encounter is infrequent and usually correct; usage to define a separate anatomic site is less common and problematic; usage to define a distinct service is common and not infrequently overrides the edit in the exact circumstance for which the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) created the edit in the first place. The CMS has implemented 4 new subsets of modifier 59 to combat the abuse of Modifier 59 and to better understand why providers utilize modifier 59. In this post, I will provide 5 examples of when the XU modifier would be appropriate to use. The definition of Modifier XU is
The content here is for members only log in here or sign up.
All material posted on our website is the intellectual property of Gawenda Seminars & Consulting, Inc. and can’t be used, reproduced, or posted as your own material without the prior written approval of Gawenda Seminars & Consulting, Inc.
This article is not intended to and does not serve as legal advice or as consultative services, but is for general information purposes only.
Check Our Past Webinars!
Leave a Reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
When will the use of Modifier XU takes effect?
We do not know an implementation date at this time.
When do these new modifiers go into effect?
CMS has not announced the implementation date for the new modifiers for outpatient therapy services.
Can you clarify – when is it mandatory to begin using the new X modifiers to replace -59 when appropriate on outpatient therapy claims? I know the CMS transmittal was Jan 2015 but I understood there was a hold for outpatient therapy but now cannot locate timelines?
I am just confirming that these subsets of -59 have not yet gone into effect, correct?
as of June 23, 2015, CMS has not transitioned to the new subsets of modifier 59 for outpatient therapy services.
When do we need to stop using the 59 modifier and start using the new mdoifiers?
CMS will provide notice when they will transition to the new subsets of modifier 59 for outpatient therapy services.
CMS will provide further guidance when they will implement the new subsets of modifier for outpatient therapy services. Until that time, keep using modifier 59 when required for outpatient therapy services.
As of todays date do we still continue to use the 59 modifier as mentioned above in your responses?
As of September 28, 2015, CMS still allows the use of Modifier 59. The new subsets of modifier can also be used in place of modifier 59 if you choose with the Medicare program.