Encounter for palliative care

This code signifies an encounter where the primary focus of care is to provide relief from symptoms and stress of a serious illness, aiming to improve quality of life for both the patient and their family. It is a holistic approach to care that addresses physical, psychosocial, and spiritual needs.

Use this code when a patient is receiving services specifically aimed at managing symptoms, pain, and stress associated with a life-limiting or serious chronic illness, regardless of prognosis or whether curative treatment is also being pursued. This applies to initial assessments, ongoing management, and coordination of palliative services.

• Do not use this code for routine follow-up of a chronic condition without a specific palliative care focus.
• Always code the underlying primary diagnosis requiring palliative care in addition to this code.
• This code can be used in conjunction with codes for active treatment, as palliative care can be provided concurrently.