Question

Explain the difference between non-essential modifiers and essential modifiers in ICD10. How do you immediately recognize a non-essential modifier?

Answer 1

Modifiers are essential tools in the coding process, they clarify how things should be paid and further explain or qualify a CPT code.

Non-essential modifiers

A term, or a series of terms, in parentheses following the main term, clarifying the main term by giving the coder other supplementary terms or words. It is the one which doesn't require medical documentation .

Essential modifiers are one which need to be record and billing to be done based on that.

It is very easy to identify a non essential modifier which are not related to medical services but to be billable.