1What Is the C606 OHIP Code?
C606 is the OHIP billing code used by cardiologists for a repeat consultation in the context of a hospital in-patient setting. This code is appropriate when the cardiologist has previously consulted on the patient and is requested again due to new clinical developments such as recurring chest pain, a significant troponin rise, or a notable change in rhythm.
These consultations are crucial for providing continuous, quality care and ensuring optimal management of the patient's cardiac condition. A repeated consultation requires a fresh, written request from the referring physician to qualify for billing under this code. Unfortunately, it is common for this requirement to be overlooked, resulting in missed billing opportunities or insufficient documentation to support the claim.
2Related Codes
| Code | Name | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A600 | Comprehensive cardiology consultation | Initial | A comprehensive cardiology evaluation. |
| A605 | Consultation | Initial | Standard cardiology consultation. |
| A606 | Repeat consultation | Outside Hospital | Repeat consultation code for out-patient settings. |
| A675 | Limited consultation | Initial | Brief consultative service. |
3Eligibility Requirements
To bill C606, the physician must adhere to the following eligibility criteria:
- Repeat Consultation Criteria: This code is applicable only for repeat consultations of in-patient services.
- Written Request: A new written request from the referring physician, nurse practitioner, or dental surgeon is mandatory.
- Virtual Services: C606 can be billed as C606A if rendered virtually via video, but telephone consultations are not permissible under this code.
- Out-Patient Consideration: For services rendered outside hospital in-patient settings, use the corresponding code A606.
4What Your Clinical Note Must Show
Every repeat consultation under C606 must have a documented written request.
- Ensure request is dated.
- Include referring practitioner's details.
- Retain a copy in the patient's record.
Document the clinical reasons for the repeat consultation, detailing any new developments.
- Include new symptoms or test results.
- Summarize findings and recommendations.
For virtual consultations, document the mode of communication.
- Indicate that video was used.
- Record platform details and technical feasibility.
5Weak vs. Strong Note Examples
The strong note succeeds by clearly documenting the reason for the repeat consultation, acknowledging the written request, and detailing comprehensive clinical observations and recommendations, while the weak note lacks specific details and supporting documentation.
Reviewed patient's chart and symptoms. Repeat consultation conducted. Recommendations made orally to the team.
Received a written request from Dr. Smith due to patient's elevated troponin level and recurrent chest pain. Conducted a thorough evaluation, noting changes in patient's rhythm and clinical picture. Recommendations for medication adjustment provided. Documented video consultation via secure platform with family present.
- Detail specific new findings related to the patient's symptoms.
- Include the written request acknowledgment.
- Document virtual consultation specifics.
