What is the global period specified by Medicare for simple repairs?

The global period for simple repairs under Medicare is indeed 10 days. This means that, following a simple repair procedure, any related follow-up care or visits are generally included in the surgical fee for a period of 10 days. During this time, the physician or healthcare provider is responsible for all relevant evaluation and management services related to the repair without additional billing.

Understanding the global period is crucial for proper coding and billing practices, as it impacts how services are documented and claimed. Simple repairs, such as those for lacerations or minor skin procedures, typically fall within this shorter global period due to their straightforward nature and the expectation that follow-up care is minimal, thus allowing for efficient healthcare delivery.