AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) — Question 122

A 65-year-old gentleman presents for refill of medications and follow-up for his chronic conditions. The patient indicates good medicine compliance. No new symptoms or complaints.
Appropriate history and exam are obtained. Labs that were ordered from previous visit were reviewed and discussed with patient. The following are the diagnoses and treatment:
Hypokalemia - stable. Refill Potassium 20 MEQ
Hypertension - blood pressure remaining stable. Patient states home readings have been in line with goals. Refill prescription Lisinopril.
Esophageal Reflux - Patient denies any new symptoms. Stable condition. Continue taking over the counter Prevacid oral capsules, 1 every day.
Patient is instructed to follow up in 3 months. Labs will be obtained prior to visit.
What CPT® code is reported?

Answer options

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct CPT® code is 99397, which is used for a preventive medicine visit for an established patient aged 65 or older. This visit involved a comprehensive assessment and management of chronic conditions, which fits the criteria for this code. The other options, such as 99212 and 99214, are for lower complexity visits, and 99396 is for preventive services for a patient younger than 65, making them inappropriate in this context.