Confusion reigns over when and how to use some of the new and revised codes in the 2003 edition of the Physician's Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code book and the 2003 HCPCS codes (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System).

In a classic case of a good intention gone awry, the 2003 CPT codebook attempted to simplify modifier codes by replacing five-digit codes with two-digit codes. For example, rather than using 09950 to report bilateral surgery, you now use a two-digit code (?50) for bilateral procedures.

Not all payers have switched to the two-digit modifiers. If you have third-party payers that require the five-digit modifiers, confirm that they will now accept the two-digit modifiers and that they are aware that five-digit modifiers no longer "officially" exist. This is crucial for making sure your payers continue to reimburse your claims without holdups over the modifiers.