When coding a visit for a patient on the second day of hospitalization with low complexity MDM, what is the correct code?

The correct code for billing a visit for a patient on the second day of hospitalization with low complexity Medical Decision Making (MDM) is 99231. This code is part of the office or other outpatient visit codes for established patients and typically applies to subsequent hospital care, which encompasses visits occurring after the initial hospital care has been established.

Specifically, 99231 is used in scenarios where the encounter does involve low complexity MDM, which is appropriate for follow-up visits where the patient's condition is stable or improving, and requires a relatively simple evaluation and management process. It indicates that the clinician is providing a follow-up service that does not require extensive diagnostic or decision-making complexity.

In contrast, other codes presented do not suit this context. For instance, 90792 relates to a psychiatric diagnostic evaluation, which would not apply to a general medical follow-up visit, while 99455 refers to a work-related or medical disability examination, typically not linked to hospital visit coding. Lastly, 25031-RT is a specific code related to diabetes management that would not be appropriate for a hospitalization follow-up.

Thus, in this scenario, 99231 clearly aligns with the requirements of coding a follow-up visit for a patient hospitalized with low complexity