1What Is the K735 OHIP Code?
The K735 billing code is used for telephone consultations where a consultant physician provides advice to another physician, usually when the consultant is on emergency or urgent care duty. This service is crucial in ensuring continuity of care, especially for rural or remote family physicians who may require immediate input on managing a patient.
This code allows for remuneration for the consultant's time in reviewing patient data and providing recommendations over the phone. It differs from in-person or video consultations in that it is specifically designed for the dynamic and immediate communication needed in urgent or emergency settings.
It is important to note that K735 is often missed because physicians may not be aware it can be billed separately from other in-person patient interactions or services provided on the same day.
2Related Codes
| Code | Name | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A914 | GP focused practice comprehensive consultation by Video | Fee: $247.40 | Comprehensive video consultation with a GP. |
| A006 | Repeat consultation | Fee: $47.10 | Follow-up consultation with the GP for ongoing issues. |
| A010 | GP focused practice consultation by Video | Fee: $95.60 | Standard video consultation with a GP. |
| A011 | GP focused practice repeat consultation by Video | Fee: $47.10 | Follow-up video consultation for ongoing issues. |
3Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility Requirements
- The K735 service is specifically for telephone consultations where a consultant physician provides recommendations to a referring physician.
- The service must be initiated by the referring physician or nurse practitioner, who intends to continue patient care based on the advice given.
- The consultant physician reviews all relevant patient data provided by the referring physician or nurse practitioner during the call.
- This code can be billed in addition to other visits or services provided to the same patient on the same day by the same referring physician.
4What Your Clinical Note Must Show
Ensure documentation is complete for the telephone consultation.
- The referring physician must document the need for consultation.
- The consultant physician should document all advice and recommendations provided.
- Transmission of relevant patient data by the referring physician should be noted.
5Weak vs. Strong Note Examples
The strong note succeeds because it clearly documents the specifics of the consultation, including what data was reviewed and the detailed advice given, while the weak note lacks specificity and detail.
Patient details were discussed. Instructions given.
Consultation with Dr. Smith via telephone regarding Mr. Johnson's chest pain management.
Reviewed labs and imaging sent by Dr. Smith.
Advised medication adjustments and follow-up plan.
- Reviewed Mr. Johnson's latest lab results and ECG.
- Recommended adjusting ACE inhibitors due to patient's risk factors.
- Advised to monitor vitals and arrange for follow-up within two weeks.
