How many units are assigned to the qualifying circumstance code +99135?

The qualifying circumstance code +99135 is assigned 1 unit. This code is used to indicate that a prolonged service in the inpatient or observation setting has taken place, and it specifically identifies an additional hour of service.

In medical coding, units typically reflect the amount of service provided, and for +99135, this means that it represents a single qualifying circumstance that adds to the overall service provided. This is crucial for ensuring that healthcare providers are adequately compensated for the additional time and resources spent on a patient in specific circumstances, such as when a patient is hospitalized for an extended period due to complexity or additional issues.

Understanding coding like +99135 is essential for accurate billing and reimbursement in medical settings, as it allows for the appropriate documentation of services rendered beyond standard coding practices. This reinforces the importance of correctly interpreting and applying CPT codes in the context of medical auditing and coding.