2017 CPT update: Extensive changes for reporting moderate sedation

Why This Topic Matters

The 2017 CPT revisions changed how moderate sedation is recognized and reported, so coders need to understand the updated structure and code families to support accurate CPT reporting and documentation review.

Article Sections

1. Defining moderate sedation

   Introduces the general concept of moderate sedation and discusses who may provide it. It also describes the role of the trained observer when the same physician performs the associated service.

2. What’s new

   Summarizes the major 2017 CPT manual changes related to moderate sedation. It describes the removal of older manual indicators, the replacement of prior code families, and the location of related guidance within the manual.

3. Guidelines and time-based reporting

   Reviews where the relevant guidance appears in the CPT manual and explains the general structure of preservice, intraservice, and postservice work. It also covers the time-based framework used for reporting moderate sedation services.

4. Using the CPT table and examples

   Describes the table provided in the CPT Medicine section and how it supports code selection. It includes brief illustrative examples and notes on the specialties and procedures most affected by the reporting changes.