Medical Coding Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Success!

The term "global period" in surgical procedures specifically refers to the time frame during which related services are included as part of the surgical package. This incorporates not only the surgical procedure itself but also any pre-operative and post-operative care that is considered necessary and directly related to the procedure.

During the global period, certain services such as follow-up visits, wound checks, and management of complications that arise from the surgery do not incur additional charges to the patient, as they are bundled into the overall fee for the surgery. The length of the global period can vary based on the type of surgical procedure performed, which is defined by coding guidelines.

In contrast, while follow-up care is a component of the global period, it's a broader term that encompasses the total package of care within that defined time frame. Therefore, focusing on the global period's relationship to associated services allows for a clearer understanding of its role in surgical coding and billing.