Use of Global Service Data

This Position Statement was developed as an educational tool based on the opinion of the authors. It is not a product of a systematic review. Readers are encouraged to consider the information presented and reach their own conclusions.

While the members of the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) are primarily concerned with quality orthopaedic care, they are also critically concerned about accurate coding and reimbursement. The Complete Global Service Data for Orthopaedic Surgery, an annual publication of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, is intended to be used to determine correct billing and reimbursement of musculoskeletal procedures.

The American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons believes the Complete Global Service Data for Orthopaedic Surgery and all authorized orthopaedic subspecialty publications (e.g., the American Society for Surgery of the Hand’s Global Service Data book) should be considered to be the definitive coding source(s) for the bundling of orthopaedic surgical procedures because the information contained in the Complete Global Service Data for Orthopaedic Surgery and authorized orthopaedic subspecialty publications is compiled and edited exclusively by orthopaedic surgeons.

The AAOS Complete Global Service Data for Orthopaedic Surgery is not intended to present a standard of care or a practice parameter. Additional services may be required which are not listed.

The Complete Global Service Data for Orthopaedic Surgery shows the relationship between CPT™ musculoskeletal codes, including annual updates on new codes and annual review of existing code packages. All information included in this book is compiled by AAOS and is based on the deliberations of the orthopaedic surgeons who are experts in orthopaedic coding and members of the AAOS Coding, Coverage and Reimbursement Committee.

December 2010 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

This material may not be modified without the express written permission of the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

For additional information, contact the Public Relations Department at 847-384-4036.