Understanding Mental Health CPT Codes: The Basics
As healthcare professionals, it’s critical to stay updated with the latest changes and trends in our industry. One domain that’s gained significant importance over the last few years is mental health. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health issues have risen to an all-time high, increasing the need for mental health practitioners and more importantly, the importance of proper documentation.
This article aims to provide insight into the basics of Mental Health CPT codes that play an integral role in the mental health documentation and reimbursement process.
What are CPT codes in mental health?
Current Procedural Technology (CPT) codes are used in mental health to classify medical procedures and services provided by mental health professionals. These codes enable practitioners and billing experts to accurately bill for services rendered, analyze reimbursements, and capture essential data for public health research.
Why are CPT codes important in Mental Health?
CPT codes play a crucial role in the mental health documentation and reimbursement process. Proper coding ensures that practitioners receive fair compensation for services provided to patients, while at the same time, proper documentation provides an accurate record of the services provided.
What are the most commonly used CPT codes in Mental Health?
There are five types of CPT codes commonly used in mental health that mental health practitioners should be familiar with. These include:
1. Psychotherapy: CPT codes 90832, 90834, and 90837 are commonly used for psychotherapy. The codes vary based on the length of the therapy session. 90832 is for a 30-minute session, 90834 is a 45-50-minute session, and 90837 is a 60-minute session.
2. Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation: CPT codes 90791 and 90792 are used for psychiatric diagnostic evaluation. These codes are used when a patient is evaluated for psychiatric disorders and are needed for treatment planning.
3. Psychological and Neuropsychological Tests: CPT codes 96136 – 96139 for testing neuropsychological, psychological, and developmental disorders in children and adults.
4. Family Therapy: CPT code 90847 is used for family therapy sessions which are typically longer than a single therapy session.
5. Medication Management: CPT code 90863 is used for medication management services where the status of the medication is reviewed, and adjustment is made to improve the treatment process.
The above codes are essential for mental health practitioners, helping them to stay organized and document their services in an appropriate manner.
Conclusion
Mental health CPT codes are an indispensable tool for mental health practitioners in the United States to provide proper documentation for their services rendered and ensure fair reimbursement for their services. This article has highlighted the five most commonly used CPT codes in mental health practice and their significance in the documentation and reimbursement process. Mental health practitioners should keep themselves updated with the latest changes and developments in mental health CPT codes and ensure their documentation is accurate and appropriately coded.
