When and how do we use the GV and GW modifiers in hospice work?

The GV modifier is placed in field 24D on the CMS 1500 claim form. This is the modifier used when a physician is the attending physician for a hospice patient and not associated with the hospice in any way (employed, contracted, or volunteering), but who is providing a service that is related to the diagnosis for which a patient has been enrolled into hospice.

The GW modifier, on the other hand, is used when a physician is the attending physician for a hospice patient and not associated with the hospice in any way (employed, contracted, or volunteering) who is providing a services that is not related to the diagnosis for which a patient has been enrolled onto hospice.

My source for this information was NHPCO NewsBriefs, Volume 6, Issue 41 (October 14, 2004); members are able to access back issues on the NHPCO 

Thanks to Daniel Maison, MD, of Treasure Coast Hospice for his help with this question.

Coding & Documentation

Medical Billing & Collections

Finance

Here is guidance on when and how to use the GV and GW medical coding modifiers in hospice work for attending physicians.