1What Is the A056 OHIP Code?
What is OHIP A056?
The A056 code represents a repeat consultation in the field of Preventive Medicine. This service is applicable when the same specialist provides a follow-up consultation for the same presenting issue after another healthcare professional has offered interim care. This code applies to scenarios such as follow-up for a returning traveler or reassessment of an immunization risk matter managed elsewhere in the interim.
Though this code is frequently utilized, it can be missed if the proper documentation of the repeat consultation's requisition is not maintained, as each consultation requires a new written request from the referring healthcare provider.
2Related Codes
| Code | Name | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A050 | Special community medicine consultation | Used for special consultations within community medicine, offering a higher complexity service. | |
| A055 | Consultation | A standard consultation within the field of community medicine. | |
| A400 | Comprehensive community medicine consultation | A more thorough evaluation and management within community medicine. | |
| A405 | Limited consultation | This code is used for limited consultations within community medicine, similar in fee to A056. |
3Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for A056
To bill the A056 code, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
- Each repeat consultation must be supported by a new written request from the referring physician, nurse practitioner, or dental surgeon.
- This written request must be maintained in the consulting physician's records, unless the service is provided in a facility where common medical records are kept.
- A056 can be delivered virtually, but only through video consultation, and must be billed as A056A. It is not eligible for telephone consultation.
- Repeat consultations are not subject to the standard consultation frequency limits.
4What Your Clinical Note Must Show
Ensure the following documentation is part of the medical record:
- A new written request from the referring physician, nurse practitioner, or dental surgeon.
- Maintain records of the request in cases outside of common medical record facilities, such as private clinics.
5Weak vs. Strong Note Examples
The strong note succeeds by providing detailed documentation of the patient's scenario, including the new referral and interim care specifics, whereas the weak note lacks specificity and necessary documentation.
Patient returned for repeat consultation. Discussed the same health issue as before.
Patient returned for a repeat consultation regarding travel-related immunization risks, following interim management by their GP. A new referral request from the GP dated [insert date] is on file. Video consultation conducted according to patient's preference.
- Documented the specific issue and interim care provided by the referring physician.
- Stored the new written referral in the patient record.
