What modifier is reported when a CRNA is personally performing a procedure with medical direction from an anesthesiologist?

When a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) is personally performing an anesthesia procedure with medical direction from an anesthesiologist, the appropriate modifier to report is QX. This modifier specifically indicates that the CRNA is providing anesthesia services under the medical direction of an anesthesiologist.

The use of QX assures proper billing and reimbursement for anesthesia services where there is a team structure involved, highlighting that the CRNA is not solely responsible for the patient's anesthesia care but is operating under the guidance of a licensed physician. This delineation is crucial in anesthesia billing, as it affects reimbursement rates and compliance with regulations governing anesthesiology practices. In this scenario, the emphasis is on the collaboration and oversight by the anesthesiologist while still recognizing the skilled involvement of the CRNA.

Modifiers like QY, QZ, and QK serve distinct roles in the anesthesia billing process. QY indicates a CRNA is working under the supervision of an anesthesiologist but is not personally performing the anesthesia, whereas QZ indicates a CRNA is providing anesthesia services without supervision, and QK pertains to a situation where an anesthesiologist is directing multiple anesthesia services but is not directly involved. Each of these modifies the