When would a physical therapist use the unlisted modality (97039) or the unlisted procedure (97139) codes?
It is recommended that these codes be utilized when the therapist cannot find another code that describes the intervention provided. It is recommended that a narrative be placed next to 97039 or 97139 that explains the use of the code. Without a narrative, the payer would have no knowledge of why they should pay for that code. Patient education is not a proper use of the unlisted codes. Patient/caregiver education is part of the delivery of care for specific interventions such as (but not limited to) range of motion, activities of daily living, self care or strengthening. It is recommended that time devoted to patient/caregiver education be included in the code that describes the purpose of the intervention.
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- When would a physical therapist use the unlisted modality (97039) or the unlisted procedure (97139) codes?
