Cancelled Appointment - CDT Code Guide
Overview
CDT code D9987 is used to document a cancelled appointment in a dental practice. This code falls under the category of Adjunctive General Services, specifically within non-clinical procedures. It is important for dental professionals to accurately record cancellations to maintain proper scheduling and billing records. While a cancelled appointment does not involve clinical procedures, it can impact the practice's operational efficiency and financial planning. This code helps in tracking patient attendance patterns and managing the practice's workflow effectively.
When to Use This Code
- When a patient cancels an appointment with less than 24 hours notice
- When a patient does not show up for a scheduled appointment
- When a patient reschedules an appointment on the same day
- To document a cancellation for record-keeping purposes
- When a cancellation fee is applicable and needs to be billed
Documentation Requirements
- Patient's name and contact information
- Date and time of the originally scheduled appointment
- Reason for cancellation, if provided
- Date and time of cancellation notice
- Documentation of any cancellation fees charged
- Notes on rescheduling, if applicable
Billing Considerations
Billing for cancelled appointments may vary depending on the practice's policy and insurance agreements. It's important to check with the patient's insurance provider to understand if cancellation fees are covered. Practices should clearly communicate their cancellation policy to patients, including any fees that may apply. Common modifiers are not typically used with this code, but practices should ensure accurate documentation to support any fees billed.
Related CDT Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, D9987 is not covered by insurance as it is a non-clinical code. Practices should inform patients about any cancellation fees.
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