Can physical therapists utilize CPT codes outside of the 97000 series?
Yes. Physical therapist practice is limited only by their scope of practice as defined by each state practice act. It is not defined by the CPT 97000 series. CPT states that any practitioner can use any code so long as they are covered by their practice acts. There are many examples of codes that physical therapists can claim that are outside of the 97000 series. For instance, in the Neurology section of CPT, the range of motion, muscle testing codes and EMG/nerve conduction testing codes (95000 series) are well within the physical therapist’s scope of practice. Physical therapists can also utilize the strapping codes and splinting codes (29000 series) and the application of TENS code (64550).
