Effective January 1, 2023, when adding up time spent on any encounter, include time spent before, during and after the visit on the date of the encounter. When selecting the level of care based on time, you must document time spent as well as the nature of the activities performed.

When adding up time spent, include the following activities:

• Preparing to see the patient
• Performing the exam and evaluation
• Counseling the patient
• Ordering labs or other diagnostic studies
• Communicating with other health care professionals
• Documenting the encounter
• Coordinating care