Is D9440 covered by insurance?

Coverage for D9440 varies by insurance provider. It is important to verify with the patient's insurance company to determine if after-hours visits are covered.

Can D9440 be billed alongside other procedure codes?

Yes, D9440 is typically billed in conjunction with other procedure codes for services provided during the after-hours visit.

How should the necessity for an after-hours visit be documented?

The necessity should be documented with a clear explanation of the urgent or emergent condition that required attention outside of regular hours.

Are there any frequency limitations for using D9440?

Frequency limitations may apply depending on the patient's insurance policy, so it's important to check with the insurer.

D9440

Office Visit After Hours - CDT Code Guide

Adjunctive General Services/Professional Visits

Overview

CDT Code D9440 is designated for office visits that occur outside of regularly scheduled hours. This code is typically used when a patient requires dental care during evenings, weekends, or holidays, when the dental office is not normally open. The procedure involves providing necessary dental services to address urgent or emergent needs that cannot wait until the next regular office hours. This code is crucial for practices that offer extended hours to accommodate patients with urgent dental issues or those who cannot attend appointments during standard hours.

When to Use This Code

A patient experiences a dental emergency on a weekend.
A patient requires immediate attention after regular office hours due to severe pain.
A patient needs urgent care during a holiday when the office is closed.
A patient is unable to attend appointments during regular hours due to work commitments.
A follow-up visit is necessary after hours to monitor a post-operative complication.

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific reason for the after-hours visit.
Record the date and time of the visit.
Include detailed notes on the services provided during the visit.
Ensure patient consent for the after-hours visit is documented.
Provide evidence of the necessity for an after-hours appointment.
Include any communication with the patient regarding the scheduling of the visit.

Billing Considerations

When billing for D9440, it is important to note that this code is used in conjunction with other procedure codes performed during the visit. There may be limitations on how frequently this code can be billed for the same patient. Common modifiers such as -25 or -59 may be applicable depending on the services rendered. Insurance coverage for after-hours visits can vary, so it is advisable to verify with the patient's insurance provider beforehand.

Related CDT Codes

D0140 D9110 D0170 D0220 D0230

Frequently Asked Questions

No, D9440 is specifically for visits that occur outside of the office's regular hours due to urgent or emergent needs.

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