To determine the correct E/M code, we need to consider the three key components: history, examination, and medical decision making (MDM).
* History:
* The documentation indicates an expanded problem-focused history. This is supported by the detailed history of present illness, including the patient's description of symptoms, family history, and review of systems with pertinent positives and negatives.
* Examination:
* The examination is also expanded problem-focused. The physician focused on the relevant systems (head, neck, throat) and documented specific findings related to the chief complaint (thyromegaly).
* Medical Decision Making:
* The MDM is straightforward. The physician is evaluating a new problem (bilateral thyroid nodules) with a low level of risk. Although further workup is planned, this alone doesn't automatically increase the MDM complexity.
Based on these components, 99213 is the most appropriate code.
Why other options are incorrect:
* 99212: Requires a problem-focused history and examination, which is less comprehensive than what was documented.
* 99214 and 99215: Require a higher level of MDM (low or moderate complexity) and/or a more detailed examination. The documentation doesn't support this level of service.
References:
* CPT Codes 99211-99215: Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient
* 1995 and 1997 Documentation Guidelines for Evaluation and Management Services: These guidelines provide detailed criteria for selecting the appropriate E/M code based on history, examination, and MDM.
* AAPC Coder's Desk Reference: This resource provides detailed information on coding guidelines and procedures.