Does an EKG need a modifier?

Asked by: Armand Wolf  |  Last update: November 3, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (16 votes)

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – CPT and ICD-10 Codes If a physician performs only the interpretation and report (without the tracing), they should report CPT code 93010-not 93000 with modifier -26. DON'T apply it when another physician already interpreted the test.

Does 93000 need a 25 modifier?

You should append modifier -25 to the evaluation and management (E/M) code, but you should not need additional modifiers for 69210, “removal impacted cerumen (separate procedure), one or both ears,” or for 93000, “electrocardiogram, routine ECG with at least 12 leads; with interpretation and report,” because these ...

How do you bill for an EKG?

According to CPT coding principles, a physician should select "the procedure or service that accurately identifies the service performed." CPT 93010 is defined as an "Electrocardiogram, routine ECG with at least 12-leads; interpretation and report only." CPT 93042 is defined as "Rhythm ECG, one to three leads; ...

When should modifier 25 be used?

The use of modifier 25 “indicates that documentation is available in the patient's record to support the reported E/M service as significant and separately identifiable,” the council report (PDF) adds.

Is modifier 25 needed for EKG?

Yes, you need to add a -25 modifier to your E&M service when billing in conjunction with an EKG or injection admin service done on same DOS. You're sure to get a bundling denial without it.

Be Heart Smart: What is an EKG and why would I need one?

32 related questions found

When should modifier 26 be used?

What you need to know. Modifier 26 is defined as the professional component (PC). The PC is outlined as a physician's service, which may include technician supervision, interpretation of results and a written report. Use modifier 26 when a physician interprets but does not perform the test.

What is the modifier 76 on an EKG?

When the same physician interprets serial x-rays or EKGs performed on the same day, CPT modifier 76 must be submitted to indicate the service was repeated subsequent to the original procedure.

What is a 79 modifier used for?

Modifier 79 is used to indicate an unrelated procedure performed by the same physician during the postoperative period of the original surgery. When the procedure is related to the original surgery or is a staged (anticipated) surgery, it falls under the global period and should not use Modifier 79.

What is a 73 modifier used for?

Modifier -73 is used by the facility to indicate that a surgical or diagnostic procedure requiring anesthesia was terminated due to extenuating circumstances or to circumstances that threatened the well being of the patient after the patient had been prepared for the procedure (including procedural pre-medication when ...

What modifier do I use for an EKG?

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – CPT and ICD-10 Codes

If a physician performs only the interpretation and report (without the tracing), they should report CPT code 93010-not 93000 with modifier -26.

Is ECG the same as EKG?

EKG and ECG are actually different spellings of the same diagnostic test that monitors your heart's electrical activity. EKG is the abbreviation from the German spelling of electrocardiogram (which is elektrokardiogramm in German).

Is an EKG covered by Medicare?

Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) screenings

Part B covers an EKG or ECG (as a one-time screening with a referral from your doctor as part of your "Welcome to Medicare" preventive visit and as a diagnostic test.)...

How do you bill for EKG in office?

To bill for an EKG procedure accurately, healthcare professionals need to use the correct CPT code. The CPT codes for EKG include 93000, 93005, 93010, 93040, 93041, and 93042. These codes cover various aspects of the EKG procedure, such as the number of leads used, interpretation, and report.

When to use modifier 95?

-95: Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via a real-time interactive audio and video communications system.

Does insurance cover EKG?

You can reduce the amount you pay for an EKG to less than $100 by getting insurance coverage. Most medical insurances cover 80-100% of ECG testing. Meaning, you'll only have to pay small amounts as copays with the cover, depending on the insurance plan you choose.

What is a 78 modifier used for?

Definitions. Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) modifier 78 is used to describe an unplanned return to the operating room or procedure room during the global period of the initial procedure by the same physician.

What is the 59 modifier used for?

Modifier 59 Distinct Procedural Service indicates that a procedure is separate and distinct from another procedure on the same date of service. Typically, this modifier is applied to a procedure code that is not ordinarily paid separately from the first procedure but should be paid per the specifics of the situation.

When to use modifier 24?

CPT Modifier 24
  1. This modifier may be used to indicate that an evaluation and management (E/M) service or eye exam, which falls within the global period of a major or minor surgery and which is performed by the surgeon, is unrelated to the surgery. ...
  2. This modifier may only be submitted with E/M and eye exam codes.

What is 25 modifier with EKG?

The Modifier 25 is added to the E/M visit to indicate that there was a separately identifiable E/M on the same day of a procedure.

What codes cover an EKG?

Rhythm ECGs are used to evaluate signs and symptoms that may reflect a cardiac rhythm disorder. A rhythm ECG interpretation and report only (93042) is included in a 12-lead ECG interpretation and report (93000 or 93010). A rhythm ECG tracing (93040 or 93041) is included in a 12-lead ECG tracing (93000 or 93005).

What does CMS require for EKG interpretation?

CMS does not require the provider to document an ECG interpretation on a separate piece of paper, but instead allows for a complete written interpretation to be recorded within the medical record (check with your local carrier for further guidance).

Does 93000 need a modifier 26?

Does CPT 93000 Need a Modifier? For CPT code 93000, which pertains to a complete electrocardiogram, the following modifiers may be applicable: 1. Modifier 26 - Professional Component: This modifier is used when only the professional component of the service is being billed.

What is a 25 modifier used for?

Modifier 25 is appended to indicate that a significant, separately identifiable E/M service was performed by the same physician or other QHP on the same date.

When to use modifier 62?

Two surgeons. Under some circumstances, the individual skills of two or more surgeons are required to perform surgery on the same patient during the same operative session. This may be required because of the complex nature of the procedure(s) and/or the patient's condition.