Modifiers in coding are primarily used to indicate what?

Modifiers in coding are primarily used to indicate alterations in the service or procedure. They provide additional information about the service performed that is not captured by the basic code alone. For example, modifiers can tell the insurance companies if a service was bilateral, if it was a distinct or separate service from other services performed on the same day, or if an unusual circumstance affected the procedure.

This additional information can affect reimbursement rates, ensuring that healthcare providers are accurately compensated for the services they provide. The use of modifiers helps to communicate specific details that could change the interpretation and processing of claims in the medical billing and coding process.