Can a speech-language pathologist use codes from the 97000 series (physical medicine)?
Medicare policy specifically allows speech-language pathologists to use 97532 (development of cognitive skills to improve attention and memory) for treatment of cognitive/communicative disorders, but notes that either code 92507 or 97532 could be used, but not both for the same treatment. Additionally, officials at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services do not support the use of other physical medicine codes because the vignettes (examples of the procedures performed with a typical patient) used reflect physical therapy or occupational therapy. The officials contend that procedures such as speech-language pathology treatment (92507) and dysphagia treatment (92526) are bundled codes and encompass all elements of a therapy service. CPT code 92507 (speech-language treatment) is very comprehensive and generally includes all components of treatment. Using a 92000 code in combination with a 97000 code may constitute unbundling of codes, and is not allowed. Unbundling is when you code
Related Questions
- Can a speech-language pathologist use 97000 codes (physical medicine), and should they be billed in place of, or with, speech-language treatment codes?
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