HCPCS code G0447 is used to report a face-to-face behavioral counseling session focused on obesity management, lasting approximately 15 minutes. This service is typically provided in outpatient settings and is designed to support patients in weight reduction and related lifestyle changes.
What is G0447?
G0447 covers individual behavioral counseling to promote healthy weight loss and improve nutrition and physical activity. The counseling session may include:
- Assessment of the patient’s weight status and health risks
- Discussion of dietary changes, physical activity goals, and behavioral strategies
- Education about health benefits of weight loss and obesity-related complications
- Setting realistic, achievable goals and follow-up planning
This service is generally provided by qualified healthcare professionals such as physicians, dietitians, or trained counselors as part of an obesity treatment program. G0447 is intended to be a brief, focused counseling session and is often part of a series of visits covered under Medicare and some commercial payers.
When to Report G0447
You may report G0447 when:
- The counseling session is at least 15 minutes, face-to-face with the patient
- The service focuses on behavioral modification related to obesity
- The provider documents the content of the counseling, including goals and patient participation
- The patient meets criteria for obesity counseling, often based on BMI thresholds or risk factors
- The service is not bundled with another visit unless appropriately modified (e.g., with -25)
Billing Considerations and Documentation
- G0447 is Medicare-specific and may not be accepted by all commercial payers
- Documentation must include the duration and content of the counseling to support medical necessity
- It is typically billed once per day and can be used as part of a recurring treatment plan
- Modifier -25 may be required if billed alongside an E/M visit on the same day
Support Your Preventive Counseling with OptiMantra
OptiMantra helps providers deliver and document services like G0447 efficiently by offering:
- Customizable encounter templates to support documentation of lifestyle and wellness counseling
- Integrated clinical documentation tools to track visit time, goals, and patient progress
- Automated superbill generation with linked CPT and ICD codes
- Patient portal access to support continuity between visits through shared educational resources
With streamlined tools for charting, coding, and communication, OptiMantra enables providers to focus more on care and less on administrative tasks.
Try OptiMantra for free here!
