Critical care coding refers to the assignment of time-based CPT codes for the direct delivery of critical care services to a critically ill or injured patient whose condition poses a high probability of imminent or life-threatening deterioration. Critical care codes require precise documentation of total physician time spent, the nature of the patient’s critical condition, and the complexity of medical decision-making involved. Accurate critical care coding is essential for capturing appropriate reimbursement for the highest-acuity encounters and avoiding underpayment on complex cases. Nym’s autonomous medical coding engine supports critical care coding as part of the engine’s capabilities for emergency department coding.
