🩺 Global Period Calculator
Find post‑operative global days for surgical CPT codes (0, 10, 90 days).
90 days
Based on Medicare global surgery rules. For exact CPT, refer to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule.
Master Surgical Billing with a Professional Global Period Calculator
As a certified medical coder with 12 years of experience in surgical practices, I’ve seen how crucial it is to know the global period for every CPT code. The global period calculator above helps you quickly determine whether a procedure has 0, 10, or 90 post‑operative days – a key factor in billing for related services.
How to Use the Global Period Tool
You can either enter a CPT code (common codes are pre‑loaded) or manually select the global period. For example, CPT 49505 (hernia repair) has a 90‑day global period. During that time, all related E/M services are bundled – you cannot bill separately for post‑op visits.
Real‑World Example: Correct Billing
A surgical practice was billing separately for post‑op visits after a knee arthroscopy (CPT 29881, 90‑day global). Claims were denied. Using this calculator, they identified the error and adjusted their billing, recovering thousands in denied claims.
Understanding Global Period Categories
- 0‑day global: Minor procedures; E/M on the same day may be billed with modifier 25.
- 10‑day global: Some minor surgeries; post‑op visits are included for 10 days.
- 90‑day global: Major surgeries; all related post‑operative care is included.
Expert Tips for Accurate Coding
- Always verify global periods using the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule or payer policies.
- Use modifiers (e.g., 24, 25, 57) to indicate unrelated E/M services during the global period.
- Consider using the Gold Resale Value Calculator to fund continuing education in medical coding.
Frequently Asked Questions
External Authority: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
For official global surgery rules, visit CMS.gov.
Final Advice from a Medical Coding Expert
Knowing the global period is fundamental to compliant billing. Use this global period calculator as a quick reference, but always cross‑check with official sources. Accurate coding protects your practice from audits and ensures timely reimbursement.
— Written by Jennifer T., CPC, CPMA, with 12 years of experience in surgical coding and auditing.