CPT® 2018: Brace Yourself for 5 Major Coding Changes Effective Jan. 1

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps readers track annual CPT revisions that can affect claim reporting, documentation, and code set maintenance across multiple service categories. It is especially relevant for practices that bill imaging, extremity ultrasound, infectious disease testing, vascular procedures, or observation services.

Article Sections

1. Overhaul to the Chest X-Ray Section

   Covers CPT 2018 changes affecting the chest imaging portion of the code set and notes that earlier related codes are being removed. The section focuses on how the update is organized and why coders should review the revised structure.

2. Updates to Abdominal X-Ray Codes

   Summarizes analogous changes in the abdominal imaging portion of CPT 2018 and the replacement of prior abdominal x-ray entries. The discussion highlights the broader simplification of this subsection.

3. Ultrasound of Extremities Descriptors Expand

   Reviews updated descriptor language and documentation emphasis for extremity ultrasound entries in CPT 2018. The section describes how the revised wording distinguishes between complete and limited evaluations.

4. Update Lab Test, Needle Introduction Codes

   Covers new laboratory test entries and a revised descriptor in the vascular access area of CPT 2018. The section explains that these updates may affect claim processing and record review.

5. Subtle Language Change to Observation Codes 99217-99220

   Discusses wording changes in the observation care section of CPT 2018 and their setting-related implications. The section focuses on the updated preamble and code language for observation services.