When the case goes ahead
The pre-anesthesia assessment is included in the base units for the anesthesia code. You don't bill it separately.
When the case is cancelled
If you completed an evaluation and the surgery was cancelled before anesthesia started, some payers allow the evaluation to be billed as a visit. Rules on who can bill it, which code to use and what documentation is needed vary by payer. Check before you build this into your workflow.
Separate consults
A separate anesthesia consult, like a pre-op clinic visit on a different day for a complex patient, may be billable on its own when it's requested and documented as a consult.
Document either way
A clear pre-anesthesia note protects you in an audit and supports medical necessity for MAC.
This article is general information, not billing, legal or tax advice. Payer rules change; always check current guidance.
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