1What Is the A817 OHIP Code?
A817 is an OHIP billing code designated for special assessments requested by midwives or Aboriginal midwives. In family practice, these assessments are typically solicited when a midwife identifies a condition beyond their scope, such as hypertension in pregnancy, suspected fetal growth restriction, bleeding episodes, or other medical comorbidities affecting pregnancy. This allows the family physician to provide crucial evaluations or interventions.
One common oversight is the failure to retain the midwife's written request in the patient's permanent medical record. Additionally, it's essential for the physician to communicate their findings back to the midwife and the patient's primary care provider.
2Related Codes
| Code | Name | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A914 | GP focused practice comprehensive consultation by Video | as per General Preamble rules | Used for comprehensive consultations done via video, ideal for extensive assessments. |
| A006 | Repeat consultation | as per General Preamble rules | Applies to follow-up consultations, typically less comprehensive. |
| A010 | GP focused practice consultation by Video | as per General Preamble rules | Covers general practice consultations conducted via video. |
| A011 | GP focused practice repeat consultation by Video | as per General Preamble rules | Used for repeat consultations conducted through video. |
3Eligibility Requirements
The A817 billing code can be used for virtual consultations and is billed as A817A when rendered via video, but is not eligible for telephone consultations. It is part of the Family Practice & Practice In General listings. The code has no fixed annual cap but falls under the general assessment rules. Physicians should ensure that no other similar service has been rendered in the preceding 24 months to avoid billing conflicts.
4What Your Clinical Note Must Show
Ensure you have retained the following documents on the patient's permanent medical record:
- Written request from the midwife or Aboriginal midwife.
- Record of the assessment findings.
- Communication of findings back to the midwife and, if applicable, the patient's primary care physician or nurse practitioner.
5Weak vs. Strong Note Examples
The strong note provides detailed clinical information and documents follow-up actions, ensuring clear communication and comprehensive care documentation, unlike the weak note.
Patient presented for assessment at the request of midwife. Assessed and findings noted.
Patient referred by midwife due to suspected fetal growth restriction. Conducted comprehensive assessment via video. Findings include no immediate growth anomalies but recommended follow-up in two weeks. Communicated findings to midwife and patient's primary care provider.
- Detail the specific reason for assessment.
- Include comprehensive findings and recommendations.
- Document communication of findings.
