Modifiers are still required for reporting Laterality
Including laterality within the code itself was one of the significant coding changes with ICD-10-CM.The concept was introduced to help in reducing billing errors and claim denials.
The CMS issued a statement regarding the reporting of laterality which states implementation of ICD-10-CM will not change the reporting of Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes, including CPT/HCPCS modifiers for physician services.
Providers will continue to follow CPT and CMS guidance in reporting CPT/HCPCS modifiers for laterality, while ICD-10-CM codes have expanded detail, including specification of laterality for some conditions.
So it is still essential to use the proper modifiers on CPT/HCPCS codes to indicate laterality.