decisionhealth Newsletters, Coder Pink Sheets - 2020 Issue 10 (October)
CPT update: AMA releases 2 new COVID codes that take effect immediately
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Article Overview
This article covers an AMA CPT update tied to the COVID-19 public health emergency. It introduces two new Category I CPT codes, explains the general purpose of the accompanying special CPT Assistant guidance, and highlights how the update relates to expanded reporting and practice-expense considerations during the emergency. The article is relevant to coders, billing staff, compliance teams, and healthcare organizations tracking current CPT changes and payer coverage implications.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps coding and billing professionals stay current with immediate CPT changes connected to the public health emergency and understand that related coverage and payment treatment may vary by payer.
Article Sections
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AMA announces new COVID-related CPT codes
Introduces the update from the AMA and notes the broader context for the new CPT additions during the public health emergency.
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Special CPT Assistant guidance and intended use
Summarizes the accompanying AMA guidance describing the purpose and general reporting context for the new CPT additions.
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Distinction from an existing CPT service
Notes the article’s comparison of one of the new additions with an existing CPT service and the general coverage uncertainty discussed in the update.
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Reportable testing service for suspected COVID-19 cases
Describes the article’s discussion of a newly reportable laboratory testing service and the broader diagnostic context for its use.
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Resource
Provides the reference to the cited AMA special edition of CPT Assistant.
What You Will Learn
- What the AMA updated in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency
- What general topics are covered in the accompanying CPT Assistant guidance
- How the article frames the relationship between the update and payer coverage considerations
- What broad laboratory-testing context is associated with the new CPT addition
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Billing specialists
- Compliance professionals
- Revenue cycle staff
- Healthcare administrators
- Clinical laboratory billing teams
Codes Discussed
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