Question:
Does anyone know what the code is for an assistant surgeon?

UHC is denying payment for the assistant surgeon. Apparently there is a certain protocol to be followed during lap surgery & an assistant is required. The surgeon's office said they've used the correct code. Can anyone help here?    — Terri G. (posted on May 6, 2003)

May 6, 2003
Im in school for medical billing and new at this coding stuff.... I am not sure but according to my cpt book the code would be the same as the procedure before but with a modifer -80, so for instance if the code is 43846 for the surgeon/procedure then it would be 43846-80 for the assistant surgeon but dont quate me cuz im new and still trying to understand this stuff.......
   — Deanna Wise

May 6, 2003
I know that my insurance (BCBS) will not pay for an assistant. I am having my surgery on May 16 and I had to pay up front for an assistant to help my doctor with my surgery. Hope this helps.
   — Gene F.

May 7, 2003
I am a medical biller and the code stays the same as the surgeon but a modifier is added. The modifier is 80. The answer you got was correct. Good job!
   — Bertha A.