For two-way communication between a doctor and EMT during a transport involving advanced life support, which code is assigned?

The assigned code for two-way communication between a doctor and EMT during a transport involving advanced life support is 99288. This code is specifically designated for medical consultation services provided through electronic means or via two-way communication that assists in delivering advanced life support care.

When the EMT and physician are engaged in communication about a patient’s condition and treatment during transport, it reflects the need for a timely assessment and guidance on the advanced care being provided. The utilization of this code acknowledges the comprehensive nature of the consultation, which is critical in emergency situations where immediate medical direction can significantly impact patient outcomes.

In contrast, the other codes are designed for different types of encounters or services. For instance, 99285 is often used for emergency department visits with high severity of illness but is not specific to the two-way communication scenario described. Similarly, codes 99406 and 99408 pertain to specific behavioral health services, notably smoking cessation and substance abuse interventions, which do not align with the context of advanced life support communication.

Thus, 99288 is the only code that aptly characterizes the scenario presented, focusing on the essential two-way consultation required during advanced life support transport.