Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct modifier that indicates a service was reduced or eliminated is the one that specifically applies to situations when a procedure is partially reduced or when a service was performed using fewer resources than what is typically required. Modifier 52 is the appropriate code for this purpose; it communicates to payers that the service was reduced or altered from its usual procedure.

In the context of coding, using this modifier helps clarify that the service provided was not fully executed as per the standard protocol, thus ensuring accurate billing and processing. It serves as an important tool for coders to convey necessary information about variations in services rendered.

The other modifiers listed serve different purposes and do not indicate performance reduction in this context; for instance, Modifier 25 indicates a significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service on the same day as another procedure. Modifier 59 is used to indicate a distinct procedural service, while Modifier 76 refers to a repeated service by the same physician. Each of these modifiers has its own specific application, making it clear that Modifier 52 is tailored for indicating when a service has been reduced or eliminated.