2022 | CPT 99234 – CPT 99236 (Observation Or Inpatient Care Services)

The CPT codes for observation or inpatient care services can be described below.

Be aware that these codes have been revised on 01-01-2023. The descriptions below cover the previous code descriptors.

CPT Code 99234

CPT 99234 Description: CPT 99234 may be reported when a patient is admitted to inpatient status or observation and is discharged on the same day.

A minimum of 8 hours and a maximum of 24 hours is included for the inpatient status. Three key components must be used to code CPT code 99234 correctly when the Evaluation and Management service for hospital care or observation is selected.

The three components are in addition to the medical necessity for performing the procedure/procedures.

CPT Code 99235

CPT 99235 Description: CPT 99235 may be reported when a patient is admitted to inpatient status or observation (and is discharged on the same day).

A minimum of 8 hours and a maximum of 24 hours is included for the inpatient status.

CPT Code 99236

CPT 99236 Description: CPT 99236 may be reported when a patient is admitted to inpatient status or observation and is discharged on the same day. A minimum of 8 hours and a maximum of 24 hours is included for the inpatient status.

Three key components must be used to code CPT code 99234 correctly when the Evaluation and Management service for hospital care or observation is selected.

The three components are in addition to the medical necessity for performing the procedure/procedures.