There are no telephone codes for a "new patient" ?

I've been asked this question and the codes 99441 - 99443 relate to established patients. I understand this is carrier specific as to whethe or not these codes will be paid and there is a possibility of billing to the patient. However, as of now there are NO codes that apply to a new patient visit , correct? What is a simple explanation why so that I can give to our provider? Lace of actual face-to-face time? Same goes for the 98966-98968 ---Suzanne

re: There are no telephone codes for a "newpatient"

correct. The doctor needs to be able to have fave to face contact with the patient. This can be via a home visit if the patient is unable to get into the office. Your doctor can order tests, but will not be considered a new patient until there is a face to face E/M. MCR won't reimburse without face to face visits. Mist insurance carriers follow MCR guidelines. If tests are ordered prior to the face to face visit, you need to justify the reason these tests were ordered in your documentation.