2025 CPT code 99281
(Revised) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Evaluation and Management - Emergency Department Services Feed
Emergency department visit for the evaluation and management of a patient that may not require the presence of a physician or other qualified health care professional.
Modifiers may be applicable to further specify the service provided.
Medical necessity for this code is met when a patient presents to the emergency department with a medical concern, even if the concern is minor and does not require the direct attention of a physician.
The provider performs an evaluation and management (E/M) service for a patient in the emergency department.This level of service may not require the presence of a physician but can be performed by other qualified healthcare professionals.
In simple words: The provider sees a patient for the lowest level emergency department visit. This visit may not require the direct presence of a physician.
Emergency department visit for the evaluation and management of a patient, which may not require the presence of a physician or other qualified healthcare professional.
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department with a minor insect bite. A nurse assesses the bite, cleans the area, and provides instructions on home care., A patient comes to the emergency department for a routine blood pressure check. A technician takes the patient's blood pressure and reports the results to a nurse., A patient visits the emergency department for a scheduled tuberculosis (TB) skin test reading.A nurse reads the test and documents the results.
Documentation should support the level of service provided, even if minimal.This may include a brief note documenting the presenting problem, the assessment performed, and any instructions or treatment provided.
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital