Billing for the evaluation and treatment of adult depression by the primary care physician

Depression is a common problem encountered in primary care practice. There are many barriers that the primary care clinician faces in managing patients with depression. Financial reimbursement is one infrequently addressed barrier that influences how care is provided. This article addresses the coding, documentation, and reimbursement issues that pertain to the treatment of depression in the primary care setting. Coding options are reviewed with specific documentation guidelines. Reimbursement and fee schedule issues are also addressed, including clarification of certain limitations on payment by some payers.