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See a sample rate comparisonHCPCS S0257 Fee Schedule
Last Verified: September 2026
Healthcare providers use this code to document and receive reimbursement for visits that address moderate-level medical decision-making, often including multiple diagnoses or prescription management.
Counseling and discussion regarding advance directives or end of life care planning and decisions, with patient and/or surrogate (list separately in addition to code for appropriate evaluation and management service)
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Service Type | Temporary National Codes (Non-Medicare) Miscellaneous Provider Services |
| Common Place of Service | 11 - Office 50 - Federally Qualified Health Center 99 - Other POS |
| Complexity Level | Low |
| Medicaid Fee Schedule | View Medicaid rates for S0257 |
National average reimbursement for HCPCS S0257 by major payers:
$73.66
$53.70
$8.93
$16.00
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HCPCS S0257
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See a sample payer proposalHCPCS S0257 vs. Other Miscellaneous Provider Services Codes
The HCPCS S0257 code is part of the Temporary National Codes (Non-Medicare) services used for Miscellaneous Provider Services. It represents a moderate-complexity encounter and is one of several codes that vary based on time spent, level of medical decision-making, and documentation requirements.
The HCPCS S0257 code involves more provider time and moderate medical decision-making, unlike lower-level codes that require less time and simpler assessments. It typically includes multiple diagnoses, medication management, or test interpretation, leading to higher reimbursement and more detailed documentation requirements.
| Code | Complexity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| S0255-HCPCS | Low | Hospice referral visit (advising patient and family of care options) performed by nurse, social worker, or other designated staff |
| S0257-HCPCS | Low | Counseling and discussion regarding advance directives or end of life care planning and decisions, with patient and/or surrogate (list separately in addition to code for appropriate evaluation and management service) |
| S0260-HCPCS | Low | History and physical (outpatient or office) related to surgical procedure (list separately in addition to code for appropriate evaluation and management service) |
What is a fee schedule?
A fee schedule is a list of fixed prices that healthcare providers charge for specific services, including HCPCS S0257. These prices vary depending on payer type (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance), geographic location, and provider contracts.
Understanding the S0257 fee schedule helps patients estimate costs and providers optimize billing for accurate reimbursements.
Factors that affect fee schedules
Medicare & Medicaid Rates
Government-set reimbursement amounts
Private Insurance Rates
Negotiated rates between providers and insurance companies
Geographic Location
Costs may be higher in urban areas.
Provider Type
Hospital providers may have different rates than private practice.
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