CPT modifiers (also referred to as Level I modifiers) are used to supplement the information or adjust care descriptions to provide extra details concerning a procedure or service provided by a physician. Code modifiers help further describe a procedure code without changing its definition.

When should a modifier be used?

Modifiers should be added to CPT codes when they are required to more accurately describe a procedure performed or service rendered. A modifier should never be used just to get higher reimbursement or to get paid for a procedure that will otherwise be bundled with another code.

What is the purpose of a modifier in coding?

Modifiers indicate that a service or procedure performed has been altered by some specific circumstance, but not changed in its definition or code. They are used to add information or change the description of service to improve accuracy or specificity.