Coding Update: CPT Code Symbols, Modifiers, and Appendices (September 2017)

Why This Topic Matters

Understanding CPT notation changes helps readers recognize current code-book markings and locate related guidance in the CPT code set. This is relevant for anyone maintaining coding accuracy or tracking annual updates to CPT reference materials.

Article Sections

1. September 2017 pages 11-12

   Introductory publication details and the scope of the coding update. Covers general changes to CPT symbols, modifiers, and appendices.

2. Code Symbols

   Overview of current CPT symbol categories and the types of information they signal within the code set. Includes discussion of symbol changes and resequencing-related notation.

3. Modifiers

   General explanation of CPT modifiers and an overview of newer modifiers introduced since 2010. Also discusses examples showing how modifier usage is presented in context.

4. Modifier 33

   Focused discussion of one CPT modifier and how it relates to preventive-service reporting examples. Includes illustrative material tied to common preventive care scenarios.

5. Modifier 95

   Focused discussion of one CPT modifier related to synchronous telemedicine service reporting. Includes a brief example and references to telemedicine-related appendix material.

6. Appendices

   Summary of appendix additions and deletions in the CPT code set since 2010. Introduces the role of the newer appendices in organizing related coding information.

7. Appendix N

   Overview of an appendix focused on resequenced codes and out-of-sequence presentation. Describes the purpose of this appendix within the code set.

8. Appendix O

   Overview of an appendix covering a specialized group of multianalyte assay-related codes and administrative entries. Describes the kind of information included for these procedures.

9. Appendix P

   Overview of an appendix identifying services associated with synchronous telemedicine reporting. Describes the communication mode and general appendix purpose.