Refresh your understanding of CPT coding for radiology services

Why This Topic Matters

Radiology coding spans several CPT subsections and often depends on service type, anatomy, imaging modality, and documentation. Understanding the structure of these services helps coding staff locate the right section and recognize the broad documentation issues that affect compliant reporting.

Article Sections

1. Diagnostic Radiology

   Overview of the diagnostic radiology subsection and the major imaging modalities it includes. Discusses how these services are organized in CPT and the kinds of factors that affect code selection.

2. Diagnostic Ultrasound

   Introduces the diagnostic ultrasound subsection, including general ultrasound scan types and how the CPT ultrasound section is structured. Also covers the distinction between complete and limited examinations at a high level.

3. Radiologic Guidance

   Summarizes the radiologic guidance subsection and the broad categories of guidance referenced in CPT. Explains that guidance codes are grouped by imaging approach.

4. Breast Mammography

   Covers the breast mammography subsection and the broad documentation themes associated with screening and diagnostic services. Includes general information about how these services are differentiated in the CPT framework.

5. Bone/Joint Studies

   Describes the bone and joint studies subsection and the main kinds of examinations included there. Addresses the overall scope of bone age, bone length, osseous survey, and related bone assessment services.

6. Radiation Oncology

   Outlines the radiation oncology subsection and its major planning, treatment, and support areas. Provides a high-level view of the radiation therapy workflow described in the article.

7. Nuclear Medicine

   Introduces the nuclear medicine subsection and the general purpose of nuclear medicine imaging. Notes that code selection in this area is based on the type of test performed.