1What Is the A888 OHIP Code?
A888 represents an 'Emergency department equivalent - partial assessment' billing code in the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This code is designed for family physicians who render assessments in an emergency department equivalent setting, during weekends or holidays. Typically, this may occur when a family physician attends to one of their own patients within the emergency department, offering a focused assessment to address a particular concern.
This code is often overlooked when physicians do not recognize that their service meets the criteria of a partial assessment in an emergency environment. It's vital to distinguish this from a full assessment, which includes a broader evaluation process.
2Related Codes
| Code | Name | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A003 | General assessment | as per guidelines | Full assessment in Family Practice |
| C003 | General assessment | as per guidelines | Full assessment in Family Practice for special visit premiums |
| A004 | General re-assessment | as per guidelines | Re-assessment in Family Practice |
| C004 | General re-assessment | as per guidelines | Re-assessment in Family Practice for special visit premiums |
3Eligibility Requirements
To use the A888 billing code, the assessment must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Context: The partial assessment must be rendered in an emergency department equivalent setting and take place on a Saturday, Sunday, or Holiday.
- Service: It involves a limited service focusing on the history of the presenting complaint, necessary physical examination, patient advice, and appropriate record-keeping.
- Exclusivity: A888 is the only applicable billing code for this type of service on the specified days. Services like hypnotherapy or counselling on the same day are not eligible for additional payment.
- No Premiums: Additional premiums cannot be claimed with this code.
4What Your Clinical Note Must Show
Adequate time documentation is required for billing A888.
- Record the start and end time of the service.
- Ensure time details are included in the patient's permanent medical record.
5Weak vs. Strong Note Examples
The strong note succeeds because it details the presenting complaint, the specific assessment performed, and includes precise timing information, ensuring compliance with billing requirements. The weak note lacks these critical elements.
Patient seen in the emergency department. Discussed symptoms.
Patient presented with acute abdominal pain.
Conducted focused physical exam and patient history.
Advised on symptom management and follow-up.
- Time In: 14:00
- Time Out: 14:25
