ACEP Emergency Department Facility Coding – Level 3 (CPT 99283)

Overview

CPT 99283 is used for Emergency Department visits involving an expanded problem-focused history and examination with medical decision-making of low to moderate complexity. This level often includes more diagnostic preparation, minor treatments, or multiple interventions compared to Levels 1 and 2.

• Type A: APC 614

• Type B: APC 628

• HCPCS: G0382

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Possible Interventions

Could include interventions from previous levels, plus any of:

• Receipt of EMS/Ambulance patient

• Heparin/saline lock

• (1) Nebulizer treatment

• Preparation for lab tests described in CPT (80048–87999 codes)

• Preparation for EKG

• Preparation for plain X-rays of only 1 area (hand, shoulder, pelvis, etc.)

• Prescription medications administered PO

• Foley catheters; In & Out caths

• C-Spine precautions

• Fluorescein stain

• Emesis/Incontinence care

• Prep or assist with procedures such as: joint aspiration/injection, simple fracture care, etc.

• Mental Health – anxious, simple treatment

• Routine psych medical clearance

• Limited social worker intervention

• Post mortem care

• Direct Admit via ED

• Discussion of Discharge Instructions (Moderate Complexity)

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Potential Symptoms/Examples Which Support the Interventions

• Minor trauma (with potential complicating factors)

• Medical conditions requiring prescription drug management

• Fever which responds to antipyretics

• Headache – history of, no serial exam

• Head injury – without neurologic symptoms

• Eye pain

• Mild dyspnea – not requiring oxygen

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Key Notes for Coders

• Level 3 visits often include one major diagnostic preparation or one treatment requiring moderate resources.

• Always ensure both the intervention and symptom are documented in the ED note.

• If oxygen therapy, multiple tests, or continuous monitoring are required, consider Level 4 (99284) coding.

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Next in the series: ACEP ED Facility Level 4 – High Resource Use.