CPT modifier 59 indicates which concept?

• A. A distinct, separate procedure or service that is not normally billed together with the primary procedure
• B. A bundled service
• C. Anesthesia-related modification
• D. A global period indicator

Answer: (A)

Modifier 59 signals a distinct procedural service. It is used when two procedures are performed on the same day that are not normally bundled together, indicating that one service is separate from the other and should be paid individually. This helps the payer understand that the second procedure isn’t encompassed by the first procedure’s global package. The other options describe a bundled service, an anesthesia-related change, or the global period indicator—none of which explain what modifier 59 represents. Documentation should show why the services are distinct to support unbundling.