I get a little confused on when to bill out a fracture care code vs. E/M’s or if both should be used, this example is for the clinic pro-fee. Curious if I could get some insight on how others would code this case:

Patient comes into the clinic and is evaluated, and after x-rays is diagnosed with a radial fracture. The provider applies a short arm cast (no manipulation), and requests that the patient return in 3 weeks for another set of x-rays.

The patient returns after 3 weeks, the x-ray shows a healing fracture, and decides the cast can come off- and sends the patient home in a pre-fab splint. He asks her to return again in 3 weeks. Would you use a fracture care code, for the first visit or just an e/m w/the application of the short arm splint (29125). All follow-up is w/ the same provider in the same clinic. Thanks for any help! I just want to make sure I am understanding these types of encounters!

Jackie CPC, CEMC, CPMA