A physician interprets an x-ray while the hospital owns the equipment and performs the technical portion. Which modifier correctly reports the physician’s professional-only service?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation
Hospital owns the machine; physician owns the brain read—that’s modifier 26 for the professional piece. Don’t confuse it with bilateral or unbundling modifiers.
Full Explanation
Modifier 26 identifies the professional component when the physician provides only interpretation and report and another entity provides the technical component. It is distinct from bilateral modifier 50, distinct-service modifier 59, and same-physician repeat modifier 76. Correct component billing prevents duplicate technical charges on the physician claim.