In Part 2 of our Modifiers 54, 55, and 56 series, we take a deeper dive into the documentation requirements for transferring care during the global surgical period, with content prepared by KZA Coding Expert Christine Banks. Learn why written transfer agreements, accurate dates of service, and clear communication between providers are critical to compliant billing. Through real-world examples involving orthopedic procedures and preoperative evaluations, we explore the differences between formal and informal transfers, when G0559 may apply, and why routine preoperative medical clearance doesn't qualify for Modifier 56.

The 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule is here, bringing significant changes to physician reimbursement, coding requirements, and practice operations. In this KZA Alert, we break down the most important updates, including lower Medicare conversion factors, new E/M reimbursement opportunities, increased scrutiny of same-day services with Modifier 25, and expanded payments for care management and behavioral health services. From new billing modifiers to revised remote monitoring requirements and practice expense calculations, these changes present both financial challenges and opportunities for physician practices. Learn what your organization should be evaluating now to prepare for 2027, protect revenue, and stay ahead of evolving Medicare requirements. KZA Alert - Web Version Register for Webinar Final Rule

In Part 1 of our Modifiers 54, 55, and 56 series, we break down the fundamentals of splitting the global surgical package, using content prepared by KZA Coding Expert Christine Banks. Learn how these three modifiers distinguish surgical care, postoperative management, and preoperative management when different providers share responsibility for a patient's care. We also explore Medicare's updated transfer-of-care policies, introduce HCPCS code G0559, and explain why understanding who performed which portion of the global package is essential for accurate reimbursement and compliance.

We wrap up our Modifier 66 series with a closer look at the payer and compliance considerations surrounding team surgery, with content prepared by KZA Coding Expert Deb Grider. Learn why these relatively uncommon claims may receive additional scrutiny, how Medicare evaluates team surgery using the Physician Fee Schedule, and why payer-specific policies should always be reviewed before submitting a claim. We also share a practical approach to internally auditing Modifier 66 claims to ensure the documentation, surgeon roles, medical necessity, and payer requirements all support the services billed.

In Part 3 of our Modifier 66 series, we explore common coding mistakes and practical strategies for avoiding them, using content prepared by KZA Coding Expert Deb Grider. From assuming that three surgeons automatically qualify as a surgical team to confusing Modifier 66 with Modifier 62 or assistant-at-surgery modifiers, we break down where practices can go wrong. Learn how focusing on each surgeon’s actual role, documenting why a team approach was medically necessary, and adding an extra review before claim submission can help strengthen compliance.