Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) is a widely utilized medical coding classification established and maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA). It is a standard system used to document and report medical procedures and services performed by healthcare professionals, primarily in the United States. CPT codes are alphanumeric assignments given to various medical, surgical, and diagnostic procedures, as well as non-surgical medical services such as consultations and office visits.
The primary purpose of CPT is to serve as a universal language and coding system to facilitate accurate communication, documentation, reimbursement, and research analysis within the healthcare industry. CPT codes provide a standardized way for healthcare providers, insurance companies, and other stakeholders to understand and categorize the services rendered during patient encounters.
CPT codes consist of five alphanumeric characters and are organized into three major categories: Category I codes represent procedures and services that are widely accepted and commonly performed, Category II codes encompass performance-measurement tracking codes, and Category III codes involve emerging technologies and services. These codes are continuously reviewed and updated by the AMA's CPT Editorial Panel to reflect the ever-changing landscape of medical procedures and services.
Medical professionals use CPT codes to generate accurate bills, insurance claims, and medical records, ensuring appropriate reimbursement for services rendered. Additionally, these codes assist in clinical research, resource allocation, and quality improvement initiatives. CPT is widely adopted across various healthcare settings, from hospitals to clinics, enabling efficient communication and providing a comprehensive framework for medical services documentation and reimbursement.
