What does the "global surgical package" cover as per CPT guidelines?

The global surgical package, as defined by CPT guidelines, encompasses a comprehensive range of services associated with surgical procedures. Specifically, it includes pre-operative services, which may involve the initial evaluation of the patient and any necessary preparatory work before surgery. Intra-operative services cover the actual surgical procedure, encompassing all aspects of the operation itself. Post-operative services are also part of the package and typically include follow-up visits and care after the surgery to monitor the patient’s recovery and address any complications that may arise.

This holistic approach is designed to streamline billing and ensure that all essential surgical-related activities are captured in one package, providing both convenience for the provider and clarity for reimbursement. The global surgical package helps emphasize the continuity of care from the time before surgery through recovery, rather than fragmenting the billing for these interconnected components.

The other choices do not capture the full scope of what the global surgical package includes, as they either focus on individual aspects of care or specific situations that do not align with the comprehensive nature of the global package.