Use the links on the left and below to learn about specific modifiers including tips, decision flowcharts, and educational information.

Tips

• Append modifier 26 to indicate professional services whether in an office, inpatient or outpatient setting.
• Submit global services on one line. Do not append a modifier when submitting claims for global services; providers should only bill globally when they have performed the imaging service and the interpretation in an office setting.
• Append modifier 50 (bilateral procedure) to bilateral surgical procedure code(s) that require the use of a modifier except for ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). To report bilateral procedures furnished in ASCs, review this article.
• Submit bilateral surgical procedure code(s) on one claim line / service line with one unit.
• Append modifier 51 (multiple procedures) to all surgical procedures that are billed in addition to the primary surgical procedure. 

Related links

• How to use modifiers to indicate the status of an ABN
• Appropriate use of assistant at surgery modifiers and payment indicators
• For more information on modifiers please access the Medicare Claim Processing Manual
• View billing and coding FAQs to find questions and answers pertaining to modifiers.
• Medicare Claims Processing Manual (IOM 100-04, Chapter 12)

On-demand learning

• E/M services: Coding with modifier 24 and 25
• Surgical modifiers 54, 55, 56, 58, 78 and 79
• Eliminate duplicate denials by billing with the proper modifiers