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Article Guide

The E/M Audit form serves as a crucial tool in the evaluation of medical services offered during patient encounters. It encapsulates essential details including patient information, service date, provider identity, and place of service, among other vital data. Health care providers are required to make careful selections of coding options to ensure accurate billing and compliance. Critical components of this form focus on the assessment of a patient's history, physical examination, and the complexity of medical decision-making. Within the history section, providers document the history of present illness, past medical and surgical history, along with family and social history. A thorough physical examination adds further depth, covering multiple organ systems and their relevant characteristics. The form also prompts the auditor to categorize the level of complexity and risk associated with each patient's presenting problems, which can influence the coding outcomes significantly. Additionally, a systematic approach is encouraged through various checkboxes and fields, guiding the provider to ensure no pertinent areas are overlooked. Ultimately, the audit and coding process not only assists with proper reimbursement but also upholds the standards of care within the medical profession.

Form Sample

Chart #: _____________E/M Audit Form

Patient Name: ___________________ Date of service: __ / /__ Provider: _________________ MR #: ______________________

Place of Service: ______________________ Service Type: ___________________ Insurance Carrier: ______________________

Code (s) selected: __________________Code(s) audited: ______________________

Over

Under

Correct

Miscoded

History

History of Present Illness

 

Review of Systems

Past, Family & Social History

 Location

 

 Constitutional symptoms

PAST MEDICAL

 Quality

 

 Eyes

 

 Current medication

 Severity

 

 Ears, nose, mouth, throat

 Prior illnesses and injuries

 Duration

 

 Cardiovascular

 Operations and hospitalizations

 Timing

 

 Respiratory

Age-appropriate immunizations

 Context

 

 Gastrointestinal

 Allergies  Dietary status

 Modifying factors

 

 Genitourinary

 

 Associated signs and symptoms

 Integumentary

FAMILY

 No. of chronic diseases

 Musculoskeletal

 

 

 

 Neurological

 Health status or cause of death of parents,

 

 

 Psychiatric

 

siblings, and children

 

 

 Endocrine

 

 Hereditary or high risk diseases

 

 

 Hematologic/lymphatic

 Diseases related to CC, HPI, ROS

 

 

 Allergic/immunologic

 

 

 

 

 

SOCIAL

 

 

 

 

 Living arrangements

PF=Brief HPI

 

 

 

 Marital status Sexual history

EPF=Brief HPI, ROS (Pertinent=1)

 

 

 

 Occupational history

Detailed= Extended HPI (4+) + ROS=(2-9) PFSH=1

 

 

 Use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco

Comprehensive= Extended HPI + ROS (10 + systems) PFSH=2 Established, 3 New Patient

 Extent of education

PFSH Form reviewed, no change

PFSH form reviewed, updated

PFSH form new

 Current employment Other

**Extended HPI=Status of 3 chronic illnesses with 1997 DG. Some allow for 1995 as well.

History ______________

 

 

General Multi-System Examination

 

 

Constitutional

3 of 7 (BP,pulse,respir,tmp,hgt,wgt)

General Appearance

Eyes

Conjunctivae, Lids

Eyes: Pupils, Irises

Ophthal exam -Optic discs, Pos Seg

ENT

Ears, Nose

Oto exam -Aud canals,Tymp membr

Hearing

Nasal mucosa, Septum, Turbinates

ENTM: Lips, Teeth, Gums

Oropharynx -oral mucosa,palates

Neck

Neck

Thyroid

Respiratory

Respiratory effort

Percussion of chest

Palpation of chest

Auscultation of lungs

Cardiovascular

Palpation of heart

Auscultation of heart (& sounds)

Carotid arteries

Abdominal aorta

Femoral arteries

Pedal pulses

Extrem for periph edema/varicoscities

Chest

Inspect Breasts

Palpation of Breasts & Axillae

Gastrointestinal

Abd (+/- masses or tenderness)

Liver, Spleen

Hernia (+/-)

Anus, Perineum, Rectum

Stool for occult blood

GU/Female

Female: Genitalia, Vagina

Female Urethra

Bladder

Cervix

Uterus

Adnexa/parametria

GU/Male

Scrotal Contents

Penis

Digital rectal of Prostate

Lymphatic

Lymph: Neck

Lymph: Axillae

Lymph: Groin

Lymph: Other

Musculoskeletal

Gait (...ability to exercise)

Palpation Digits, Nails

Head/Neck: Inspect, Palp

Head/Neck: Motion (+/-pain,crepit)

Head/Neck: Stability (+/- lux,sublux)

Head/Neck: Muscle strength & tone

Spine/Rib/Pelv: Inspect, Palp

Spine/Rib/Pelv: Motion

Spine/Rib/Pelv: Stability

Spine/Rib/Pelv: Strength and tone

R.Up Extrem: Inspect, Palp

R.Up Extrem: Motion (+/- pain, crepit)

R.Up Extrem: Stability (+/- lux, sublux)

R.Up Extrem: Muscle strength & tone

L.Up Extrem: Inspect, Palp

L.Up Extrem: Motion (+/- pain, crepit)

L.Up Extrem: Muscle strength & tone

R.Low Extrem: Inspect, Palp

R.Low Extrem: Motion (+/-pain, crepit)

R.Low Extrem: Stability (+/- lux, laxity)

R.Low Extrem: Muscle strength & tone

L.Low Extrem: Inspect, Palp

L.Low Extrem: Motion (+/-pain, crepit)

L.Low Extrem: Stability (+/- lux, sublux)

L.Low Extrem: Muscle strength & tone

Skin

Skin: Inspect Skin & Subcut tissues

Skin: Palpation Skin & Subcut tissues

Neuro

Neuro: Cranial nerves (+/- deficits)

Neuro: DTRs (+/- pathological reflexes)

Neuro: Sensations

Psychiatry

Psych: Judgement, Insight

Psych: Orientation time, place, person

Psych: Recent, Remote memory

Psych: Mood, Affect (depression, anxiety)

Exam: ______________________

1995-1=PF, limited 2-7=EPF, extended

2-7=Detailed, 8+ organ systems=Comprehensive 1997-1-5=PF, 6-11=EPF, 2x6 systems=D

2 from 9 systems=Comp.

 

 

Number of

Points

 

 

 

Diagnoses/Management Options

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Self-limited or minor (Stable,

1

 

 

 

improved or worsening) 

 

 

 

 

Maximum 2 points in this

 

 

 

 

category.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Established problem (to

1

 

 

 

examining MD); stable or

 

 

 

 

improved

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Established problem (to

2

 

 

 

examining MD); worsening

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New problem (to examining MD);

3

 

 

 

no additional work-up planned 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New problem (to examining MD);

4

 

 

 

additional work-up (e.g.

 

 

 

 

admit/transfer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amount and/or Complexity of Data

 

Points

 

 

Reviewed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lab ordered and/or reviewed (regardless of #

1

 

 

ordered)

 

 

TABLE OF RISK

Level of

Presenting Problem(s)

Diagnostic Procedure(s)

Management Options

Risk

 

Ordered

Selected

 

 

 

 

 

•One self-limited or minor problem, eg,

• Laboratory tests requiring

• Rest

 

cold, insect bite, tinea corporis

venipuncture

• Gargles

 

 

• Chest x-rays

• Elastic bandages

 

 

• EKG/EEG

• Superficial dressings

 

 

• Urinalysis

 

 

 

• Ultrasound, eg, echocardiography

 

Minimal

 

• KOH prep

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Two or more self-limited or minor

• Physiologic tests not under stress, eg,

Over-the-counter drugs

 

problems

pulmonary function tests

• Minor surgery with no identified risk

 

• One stable chronic illness, eg, well

Non-cardiovascular imaging studies

factors

 

controlled hypertension, non-insulin

with contrast, eg, barium enema

• Physical therapy

 

dependent diabetes, cataract, BPH

• Superficial needle biopsies

• Occupational therapy

 

• Acute uncomplicated illness or injury,

• Clinical laboratory tests requiring

• IV fluids without additives

 

eg, cystitis, allergic rhinitis, simple

arterial puncture

 

Low

sprain

• Skin biopsies

 

 

 

 

 

 

• One or more chronic illnesses with

• Physiologic tests under stress, eg,

• Minor surgery with identified risk factors

 

mild exacerbation, progression, or side

cardiac stress test, fetal contraction

• Elective major surgery (open,

 

effects of treatment

stress test

percutaneous or endoscopic) with no

 

• Two or more stable chronic illnesses

• Diagnostic endoscopies with no

identified risk factors

 

• Undiagnosed new problem with

identified risk factors

• Prescription drug management

 

uncertain prognosis, eg, lump in breast

• Deep needle or incisional biopsy

• Therapeutic nuclear medicine

 

• Acute illness with systemic symptoms,

• Cardiovascular imaging studies with

• IV fluids with additives

 

eg, pyelonephritis, pneumonitis, colitis

contrast and no identified risk factors,

• Closed treatment of fracture or dislocation

 

• Acute complicated injury, eg, head

eg, arteriogram, cardiac

without manipulation

 

injury with brief loss of consciousness

catheterization

 

 

 

• Obtain fluid from body cavity, eg

 

 

 

lumbar puncture, thoracentesis,

 

Moderate

 

culdocentesis

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

X-ray ordered and/or reviewed (regardless of #

1

 

ordered)

 

 

 

 

 

Medicine section (90701-99199) ordered

1

 

and/or reviewed

 

 

 

 

 

Discussion of test results with performing

1

 

physician

 

 

 

 

 

Decision to obtain old record and/or obtain hx

1

 

from someone other than patient

 

 

 

 

 

Review and summary of old records and/or

 

 

obtaining hx from someone other than patient

2

 

and/or discussion with other health provider

 

 

 

 

 

Independent visualization of image, tracing, or

2

 

specimen (not simply review of report)

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

High

One or more chronic illnesses with severe exacerbation, progression, or side effects of treatment

Acute or chronic illnesses or injuries that pose a threat to life or bodily function, eg, multiple trauma, acute MI, pulmonary embolus, severe respiratory distress, progressive severe rheumatoid arthritis, psychiatric illness with potential threat to self or others, peritonitis, acute renal failure

An abrupt change in neurologic status, eg, seizure, TIA, weakness, sensory loss

Cardiovascular imaging studies with contrast with identified risk factors

Cardiac electrophysiological tests

Diagnostic Endoscopies with identified risk factors

Discography

Elective major surgery (open, percutaneous or endoscopic) with identified risk factors

Emergency major surgery (open, percutaneous or endoscopic)

Parenteral controlled substances

Drug therapy requiring intensive monitoring for toxicity

Decision not to resuscitate or to de- escalate care because of poor prognosis

Medical Decision Making

Number of Diagnoses or Treatment Options

Amount and/or Complexity of Data to be Reviewed

Risk of Complications, Morbidity, Mortality

MDM Level=2 out of 3

SF

1

1

Minimal

LOW

2

2

Low

MOD

3

3

Moderate

HIGH

4

4

High

MDM ______________

Chart Note

Comments

Dictated

Handwritten

Form

Illegible

Note signed

Signature missing

Other Services or Modalities:

Auditor’s Signature

Document Specifications

Fact Name Details
Purpose The E/M Audit form is utilized to evaluate and ensure the accuracy and appropriateness of documentation related to Evaluation and Management (E/M) services provided to patients.
Patient Information The form requires essential patient details such as name, date of service, and medical record number, which ensures that each audit is linked to the correct individual care record.
Compliance The E/M coding process adheres to guidelines set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the American Medical Association (AMA), establishing standards that must be followed to maintain compliance.
Data Points The form includes a section for assessing and recording the complexity of medical decision-making, outlining various categories that reflect the nature of diagnoses, management options, and risks involved.
State-Specific Laws For certain states, such as California, the governing laws include the California Business and Professions Code, which mandates record-keeping in accordance with medical standards and ethical considerations.

Steps to Filling Out Em Audit

To fill out the E/M Audit form accurately, gather all required patient and service information beforehand. Ensure you have details regarding the patient’s medical history, present illness, and any relevant examinations performed. This form helps in assessing the complexity and risk involved in the medical decision-making process for the patient's care.

  1. Fill in the Chart #: _____________.
  2. Enter the Patient Name: ___________________.
  3. Write the Date of Service: __ / /__.
  4. Specify the Provider: _________________.
  5. Add the Medical Record #: ______________________.
  6. Indicate the Place of Service: ______________________.
  7. Choose the Service Type: ___________________.
  8. List the Insurance Carrier: ______________________.
  9. Record the Code(s) selected: __________________.
  10. Document the Code(s) audited: ______________________.

Next, assess the patient's history. Mark the appropriate boxes based on the patient's medical details. This includes items like the History of Present Illness, Review of Systems, and Past Family & Social History. Be thorough in checking each aspect related to the patient’s current health conditions.

  1. Check if any areas are Over, Under, or Correctly coded.
  2. Fill in the sections for History, including details of Present Illness, Review of Systems, and Past, Family & Social History. Mark applicable boxes.
  3. Document General and Multi-System Examination findings clearly. Be sure to address constitutional symptoms and any pertinent details.
  4. Input the exam details under the relevant body systems.
  5. Record the complications, diagnostics, or management options encountered.
  6. Complete the table of risk, indicating level of presenting problems, diagnostic procedures, and management options.
  7. Summarize the Medical Decision Making level by noting the number of diagnoses or treatment options, complexity of data reviewed, and risk of complications.
  8. Finalize your entries by providing a signed Auditor’s Signature.

Once all sections are filled, review the form for any errors or missing information. Make sure everything is clear and legible. It is crucial for maintaining accurate records and facilitating effective patient care.

More About Em Audit

What is the purpose of the E/M Audit form?

The E/M Audit form serves as a structured tool for healthcare providers to evaluate and document the complexity and quality of patient visits. It helps ensure that the medical decision-making, history, and examination details align with the coding chosen for billing and reimbursement. This process is vital to maintain compliance with regulations and to optimize reimbursement for services provided.

How should I complete the form for each patient encounter?

To complete the form accurately, start by populating the basic patient information, including chart number, patient name, date of service, and provider details. Carefully document all relevant data pertaining to the patient's history, examination, and medical decision-making. Ensure that you check all applicable boxes concerning the history and examination components. Remember to select the correct codes that best reflect the services rendered, as this is critical for proper billing.

What is meant by 'History' in the context of the E/M Audit form?

The 'History' section evaluates the information gathered about the patient's current condition, past medical history, and relevant family and social backgrounds. It assesses the depth of the History of Present Illness (HPI), Review of Systems (ROS), and Past, Family, & Social History (PFSH). Each category is essential for creating a comprehensive view of the patient's health and informs the medical decision-making process.

What kind of details should be included in the ‘Examination’ section?

In the 'Examination' section, document findings from the patient’s physical examination in an organized manner. This includes constitutional checks (like vital signs), detailed examinations of various body systems (e.g., eyes, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal), and necessary neurological assessments. Aim to provide a thorough yet concise overview of significant findings that contribute to diagnosing the patient’s condition.

How does the form classify different levels of medical decision-making?

The E/M Audit form categorizes medical decision-making into various levels based on the complexity of diagnoses, amount and complexity of data to review, and the associated risks involved. These levels can range from minimal to high, helping auditors assess the appropriateness of the codes assigned based on the services rendered. Understanding these levels assists providers in evaluating the necessity of their actions and documentation.

What are the implications of incorrect coding on this form?

Incorrect coding can lead to several issues, including delayed or denied reimbursement from insurance companies. It may also expose healthcare providers to audits or compliance investigations. Overcoding can result in fines or penalties, while undercoding could mean lost revenue for services rendered. Accurate and thorough completion of the E/M Audit form helps mitigate these risks.

What should I do if I find that I have made an error on the form?

If you discover an error on the E/M Audit form, it's essential to address it promptly. Cross out the incorrect information, write the correct details clearly, and initial the change. Additionally, make a note of the change in the patient’s chart to ensure that there is a clear record of what was amended. This transparency will aid in any future reviews or audits.

Can the form be used for both established and new patients?

Yes, the E/M Audit form is suitable for both established and new patients. However, it is important to note that the criteria and documentation requirements may differ slightly for each category. When assessing new patients, providers typically need to gather more comprehensive information compared to established patients, as the latter will already have a medical history documented.

How do insurance companies utilize the information gathered in the E/M Audit form?

Insurance companies use the information from the E/M Audit form to determine if the billed services align with the documented patient care. They evaluate the documentation for accuracy, completeness, and appropriateness of the chosen codes. This assessment helps the insurers decide whether the care provided warrants payment and verifies that it adheres to established healthcare guidelines.

What resources can assist providers in learning more about properly using the E/M Audit form?

Providers can access a variety of resources to enhance their understanding of the E/M Audit form. These include coding manuals, online courses, webinars, and professional organizations that offer training on E/M coding guidelines. Collaboration with billing specialists and attending workshops can also provide practical knowledge and insights into effectively utilizing the form, leading to better compliance and more accurate billing practices.

Common mistakes

  1. Forgetting to fill in the Chart Number. This important detail helps streamline patient records.

  2. Leaving the Patient Name section blank. It's vital to identify the patient accurately to avoid mix-ups.

  3. Not providing the Date of Service. This date is crucial for tracking the timeline of patient care.

  4. Misunderstanding the Service Type. Incorrect categorization can lead to billing issues or insurance disputes.

  5. Neglecting to document Insurance Carrier details. This can result in denied claims or payment delays.

  6. Incorrectly selecting the Codes without reviewing the service provided. This could lead to improper billing.

  7. Failing to indicate the Code(s) audited. This oversight can create confusion during the audit process.

  8. Omitting patient History details. A thorough history is essential for understanding the patient's condition.

  9. Not ensuring the Exam section is completed. This part documents the clinical findings, which are critical for treatment planning.

  10. Leaving clinical notes unsigned. A missing signature could raise questions about the authenticity of the documentation.

Documents used along the form

The E/M Audit Form serves as a vital tool in evaluating and ensuring accurate medical billing and coding for healthcare providers. Alongside it, various forms and documents are commonly used to capture critical information, maintain compliance, and streamline processes. Below is a list of supplementary documents often employed in conjunction with the E/M Audit Form.

  • Patient Consent Form: This document records a patient's permission for treatment or participation in research. It is essential for legal protection and ensures that patients are informed about their care.
  • History and Physical (H&P) Form: The H&P summarizes the patient's medical history, current health status, and physical examination findings. It serves as a foundational document in patient care and informs ongoing medical decision-making.
  • Superbill: This billing form consolidates the services provided during a patient visit, allowing for easier billing and coding. Superbills help ensure all services rendered are accurately documented for insurance claims.
  • Charge Capture Form: Used for recording specific medical services delivered during a visit, this form ensures that all appropriate charges are captured and submitted for reimbursement. Accurate charge capture is crucial for financial health.
  • Referral Form: This document is used when a patient is referred to a specialist. It typically includes patient details, the reason for referral, and relevant medical history, facilitating seamless communication between providers.
  • Progress Notes: These notes document the patient's ongoing treatment and response to care. They provide a continuous record of a patient's clinical status and are important for tracking progress over time.

Using these documents together with the E/M Audit Form enhances the effectiveness of patient care and ensures compliance with healthcare regulations. Each form plays a distinct role in the broader context of patient management and billing, contributing to a comprehensive healthcare administration process.

Similar forms

The E/M Audit form is similar to the Clinical Evaluation Document (CED), which is utilized to summarize patient consultations and examinations. Both documents focus on gathering patient history, current health conditions, and essential findings during appointments. They are structured to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s situation, highlighting critical areas like present illness and social history. The CED, like the E/M Audit form, provides a framework for providers to evaluate and document the necessity for interventions based on thorough assessments.

Another document akin to the E/M Audit form is the Patient Encounter Form (PEF). This form facilitates the documentation of patient visits, often focusing on the service rendered during a specific appointment. Similar to the E/M Audit form, the PEF captures necessary details such as patient demographics, visit reason, and relevant health information. Both forms serve to maintain a thorough record of patient interactions, ensuring that care decisions are informed by complete and accurate data.

The Progress Note shares similarities with the E/M Audit form in that it chronicles updates on patient care over time. Progress Notes contain assessments of ongoing issues, responding to previous visits while also detailing new findings. These notes, like the information gathered on the E/M Audit form, are crucial for establishing continuity of care and evaluating treatment efficacy, allowing healthcare providers to make informed decisions based on the evolution of a patient’s condition.

The Medical History Form (MHF) is another document that parallels the E/M Audit form. The MHF is used to compile a patient’s medical history, presenting critical information about past illnesses, surgeries, vaccinations, and family health backgrounds. Both documents prioritize accurate and detailed history-taking, which is essential for any medical evaluation. They facilitate a better understanding of the patient's health landscape and guide appropriate clinical decisions.

The Referral Form also shows similarities to the E/M Audit form, as it collects pertinent details to facilitate transitions between care providers. This form includes information on the patient's condition, reasons for referral, and relevant treatment history. Just like the E/M Audit form, the Referral Form aims to enhance communication and ensure that receiving providers have the necessary context to proceed with care effectively.

The Comprehensive Health Assessment (CHA) is comparable to the E/M Audit form in that it involves a holistic evaluation of a patient’s health status. The CHA includes detailed sections on medical history, lifestyle factors, and health behaviors. Both documents are structured to ensure that no critical health aspects are overlooked, ultimately facilitating thorough clinical evaluations and informed treatment planning.

Lastly, the Treatment Plan Document (TPD) has characteristics similar to the E/M Audit form in that it outlines recommended actions based on the assessment of a patient’s health. The TPD focuses on proposed treatments, goals, and follow-up measures. Both documents emphasize the importance of planning and proper documentation, helping to ensure that patient care is systematic and based on detailed evaluations that inform future strategies.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Em Audit form, certain practices can enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of your submission. Below are key considerations to keep in mind:

  • DO ensure accuracy. Double-check names, dates, and codes. Inaccuracies can lead to complications.
  • DO provide detailed histories. Include comprehensive information about the patient’s history for a thorough evaluation.
  • DON'T rush through the process. Take your time to ensure all fields are filled out completely.
  • DON'T ignore instructions. Follow specific guidelines provided to avoid common mistakes.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The E/M Audit form is only necessary for new patients.
  • This belief oversimplifies the purpose of the E/M Audit form. In reality, both new and established patients require accurate documentation to ensure appropriate coding and billing. Each patient encounter, regardless of their status, necessitates thorough quality checks through the E/M Audit process.

  • Misconception 2: The form is only used for billing purposes.
  • While billing is a significant aspect of the E/M Audit form, it also serves a crucial role in enhancing patient care. Documentation helps track patient history and treatment plans, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of individual patient needs and improving healthcare outcomes.

  • Misconception 3: The level of service is determined exclusively by the number of codes documented.
  • This misunderstanding overlooks the complexity of the evaluation and management process. The level of service is influenced by multiple factors, including the nature of the presenting problem, the amount of data reviewed, and the risk associated with the patient’s condition. Incorporating these factors is essential for accurately determining the appropriate level of service.

  • Misconception 4: Documentation is only important for legal reasons.
  • Although legal compliance is an aspect of documentation, the primary goal is to ensure continuity of care. Accurate documentation ensures that healthcare providers can make informed decisions about patient treatment, thus fostering better communication and coordination among the healthcare team.

  • Misconception 5: The E/M Audit form is overly complex and not user-friendly.
  • Many may find the form intimidating at first glance; however, it is designed to streamline the documentation process when understood correctly. Using straightforward templates makes the form more approachable, allowing providers to focus on patient care rather than navigating complicated bureaucratic requirements.

  • Misconception 6: Completing the E/M Audit form is a time-consuming burden on healthcare professionals.
  • While it can initially seem burdensome, implementing consistent documentation practices can significantly reduce time spent on the E/M Audit form in the long run. Training and familiarity with the form will lead to improved efficiency, ultimately benefiting both providers and patients.

Key takeaways

Completing the E/M Audit form requires careful attention to detail in order to ensure proper evaluation and coding of medical services. Here are five key takeaways to consider while filling out and using this form:

  • The form should be filled out completely to provide a comprehensive overview of the patient's encounter, including vital information such as patient name, date of service, and provider details.
  • Understanding the components of medical decision making (MDM) is crucial; it includes evaluating the number of diagnoses, the complexity of data reviewed, and the associated risks. All these factors contribute to the overall coding accuracy.
  • Different categories of patient history — including the history of present illness, review of systems, and past family and social history — must be documented appropriately. Each category has specific criteria that affect whether the coding meets the necessary guidelines.
  • Review the 'Level of Presenting Problem(s)' carefully; categorizing the presenting issues accurately is vital for determining the risk level and ultimately affects reimbursement and compliance.
  • Ensure the auditor’s signature is included after the review process to validate the audit. This step confirms that the evaluation is complete and aligns with the established coding guidelines.

By keeping these takeaways in mind, medical practitioners can effectively utilize the E/M Audit form to enhance coding practices and ensure compliant and accurate billing.