Medical Procedure Overview for HCPCS Code G8986

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name(s): Functional Limitation Discharge Status Assessment
• Technical/Medical Terms: Carrying, Moving & Handling Objects Functional Limitation, Discharge Status

Summary

The Functional Limitation Discharge Status (G8986) assesses a patient's ability to carry, move, and handle objects at the point of discharge from therapy or at the end of reporting. This procedure helps to evaluate improvements and functional abilities of patients after undergoing therapeutic interventions.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions or Problems Addressed:
  • Musculoskeletal disorders
  • Post-operative rehabilitation
  • Chronic pain management
• Goals/Expected Outcomes:
  • To document the patient's functional abilities in handling objects.
  • To measure progress and effectiveness of the therapy provided.
  • To guide future therapeutic or rehabilitative efforts.

Indications

• Symptoms or Conditions Warranting the Procedure:
  • Limited ability to carry, move, or handle objects due to injury.
  • Reduced functional capacity from chronic health conditions.
  • Post-operative rehabilitation needs.
• Patient Criteria:
  • Patients undergoing or completing physical therapy.
  • Patients with documented functional limitations in handling objects.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions:
  • No specific fasting or medication adjustments typically required.
  • Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for physical assessment.
• Diagnostic Tests/Assessments Required:
  • None typically required, though prior therapy notes may be reviewed.

Procedure Description

• Step-by-Step Explanation:
  1. Patient arrives at therapy or assessment center.
  2. Therapist reviews patient’s medical and therapy history.
  3. Functional tasks involving carrying, moving, and handling objects are performed.
  4. Therapist observes and records ability, limitations, and pain levels.
• Tools/Equipment Used:
  • Various objects for carrying and handling, such as weights, boxes, or everyday items.
• Anesthesia/Sedation:
  • Not applicable.

Duration

• Typically takes 30-60 minutes.

Setting

• Performed in an outpatient clinic, rehabilitation center, or therapy office.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals Involved:
  • Physical therapist or occupational therapist.
  • Occasionally, a rehabilitation physician might be consulted.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks:
  • Mild discomfort or muscle soreness.
• Rare Risks:
  • Aggravation of pre-existing injuries (rare, as therapists adapt exercises according to patient tolerance).
• Possible Complications:
  • Minimal, but managed by adapting the level of activity.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits:
  • Accurate assessment of functional improvements.
  • Data-driven adjustments to future therapy plans.
• How Soon Benefits Might Be Realized:
  • Immediate, as it provides a clear status at discharge.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care and Instructions:
  • No significant recovery needed.
  • Follow any final advice from the therapist on home exercises or activities.
• Expected Recovery Time:
  • Immediate return to normal activities.
• Restrictions/Follow-Up Appointments:
  • Follow-up may be scheduled to continue therapy or evaluate long-term maintenance.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options Available:
  • Home exercise programs.
  • Continued supervised physical therapy.
• Pros and Cons of Alternatives:
  • Home Exercise:
    • Pros: Cost-effective, convenient.
    • Cons: May lack professional oversight.
  • Continued Supervised Therapy:
    • Pros: Professional oversight, personalized adjustments.
    • Cons: Higher cost, time commitment.

Patient Experience

• What the Patient Might Feel/Experience:
  • Mild physical exertion similar to routine exercises.
  • Possible temporary muscle fatigue or soreness.
• Pain Management and Comfort Measures:
  • Precautions taken to prevent overexertion.
  • Therapists ensure comfort and safety throughout the procedure.