Name of the Procedure:

Mobility: Walking & Moving Around Functional Limitation, Current Status, at Therapy Episode Outset and at Reporting Intervals (HCPCS G8978)

Summary

This assessment measures a patient's ability to walk and move around at the beginning of a therapy episode and at regular reporting intervals. It evaluates functional limitations to help track progress and adapt treatment plans for improved mobility.

Purpose

This procedure is used to identify and monitor difficulties in walking and moving, which may arise due to various medical conditions. The goal is to improve the patient's mobility through targeted therapies and interventions, ultimately enhancing their quality of life and independence.

Indications

This assessment is indicated for patients experiencing:

• Difficulty walking or moving around due to injury, surgery, or chronic conditions.
• Mobility limitations that affect daily activities.
• Rehabilitation needs post-stroke, post-surgery, or after a significant injury.
• Chronic conditions like arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
• A thorough medical history and mobility assessment may be conducted beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: At the outset of a therapy episode, a healthcare professional will conduct a detailed assessment of the patient's ability to walk and move around.
2. Regular Intervals: Follow-up evaluations are conducted at predetermined intervals to monitor progress.
3. Documentation: Each assessment is documented using the HCPCS G8978 code, providing a standardized way to track changes over time.

Tools and equipment may include:

• Standardized mobility scales.
• Walking aids like canes or walkers.
• Gait analysis tools.

Anesthesia or sedation is not applicable for this non-invasive assessment.

Duration

Each assessment session typically takes 15-30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or rehabilitation centers.

Personnel

• Physical therapists.
• Occupational therapists.
• Rehabilitation specialists.

Risks and Complications

This non-invasive assessment is generally risk-free.

• Rare risks might include slight discomfort or fatigue during the evaluation.

Benefits

• Provides a clear understanding of the patient's mobility limitations.
• Facilitates tailored treatment plans to improve walking and movement.
• Helps track progress and effectiveness of therapies.

Benefits are usually realized over the course of the rehabilitation program, with improvements often noticeable within weeks to months.

Recovery

• No specific recovery protocol as the assessment itself does not involve invasive procedures.
• Follow the therapist’s advice on exercises and daily activities.
• Regular follow-up appointments to reassess and adjust treatment plans.

Alternatives

• Functional mobility testing using advanced technologies like motion capture systems.
• Patient self-reports or questionnaires on mobility status.
• Comprehensive physical exams by specialists.

Each alternative has its own pros and cons in terms of accuracy, invasiveness, and patient convenience.

Patient Experience

During the assessment, patients might experience varying levels of difficulty based on their current mobility status.

• Pain management and comfort measures include encouraging paced efforts and providing rests as needed.
• Therapists ensure a supportive environment to help patients perform to their best abilities.