Most of the CPT codes that are available for physical therapist services are in the 97000 series, called Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. However, PTs can bill any code if furnishing that service is permitted under state licensure laws and payer policy. This means you should become familiar with codes outside of the 97000 series, as many of them appropriately describe services you provide.

The CPT codes that PTs typically use  periodically undergo revisions. APTA is involved in the CPT coding process, in both crafting language that describes codes and determining their relative values. Staff and member advisors attend multiple meetings each year to participate in the code development and revision process.

Keep in mind that CPT coding is not the same as payment policy. Just because a code exists and is eligible for you to use doesn’t mean that a payer will reimburse for it. Payment policy is determined by each payer and/or  by employer benefit package language.

CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association, and all CPT codes and descriptions are copyrighted by AMA. For this reason, APTA is not permitted to post all CPT codes that might be billable by physical therapists. Codes that we reference are for informational purposes only. Reference the most up-to-date sources of professional coding guidance before you submit claims for payment of covered services.

The AMA website explains the entire process of CPT code development: how codes are suggested, how they become part of the CPT book, who is involved in the process, how you can submit suggestions for new codes, and more. Learn more about CPT codes.