Telephone assessment and management service provided by a qualified nonphysician health care professional to an established patient, parent, or guardian not originating from a related assessment and management service provided within the previous 7 days n
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Telephone Assessment and Management Service by a Qualified Nonphysician Health Care Professional
Summary
This procedure involves a qualified nonphysician health care professional providing assessment and management services over the telephone to an established patient, parent, or guardian. It is not related to any assessment and management service provided within the previous 7 days.
Purpose
The procedure addresses various minor health concerns and follow-up care that do not require a physical examination. The primary goal is to provide convenient and timely advice or management for health issues.
Indications
- Minor health concerns such as cold symptoms, mild pain, or managing chronic conditions.
- Follow-up for previously treated conditions.
- Patients who have ongoing health questions or need adjustments to their treatment plans.
Preparation
No special preparation is required by the patient. The patient should have relevant information available, such as current medications, symptoms, and medical history.
Procedure Description
- The patient or guardian contacts the health care provider and schedules the telephone assessment.
- At the scheduled time, the nonphysician health care professional calls the patient.
- A detailed discussion of the patient's symptoms or health concerns is conducted.
- The professional provides medical advice, management, or adjusts treatment plans as necessary.
- Recommendations for any follow-up or further testing are given if needed.
Tools used: Telephone or telecommunications device.
No anesthesia or sedation is involved.
Duration
The call typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the patient's needs.
Setting
Performed remotely via telephone or a telecommunication device from the patient’s home or any location of their convenience.
Personnel
- Qualified nonphysician health care professional (e.g., nurse practitioner, physician assistant).
Risks and Complications
- Potential for incomplete assessment due to the lack of physical examination.
- Misinterpretation of symptoms which could lead to inadequate management.
Complications: Reduced when the patient provides accurate and comprehensive information.
Benefits
- Convenient access to professional medical advice from the comfort of home.
- Timely management of health concerns.
- No need for travel or waiting in a healthcare facility.
Recovery
No recovery period is needed. The patient may receive instructions or recommendations for further action, which should be followed promptly.
Alternatives
- In-person visit to a healthcare provider for a physical examination.
- Video consultations as part of telemedicine services.
Pros:
- In-person visits enable a complete physical examination.
- Video consultations provide visual interaction, which can be more informative than audio-only calls.
Cons:
- Both alternatives might require travel and more time commitment compared to the telephone service.
Patient Experience
During the call:
- The patient will discuss their symptoms and health concerns directly.
- No physical discomfort is involved.
After the call:
- The patient will have actionable advice or a plan for their health concern.
- Pain or discomfort from their health issue can be managed with the given recommendations.