How To Use CPT Code 0552T

CPT 0552T describes the use of low-level laser therapy, specifically dynamic photonic and dynamic thermokinetic energies, provided by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0552T?

CPT 0552T can be used to describe the use of low-level laser therapy, also known as smart laser therapy, by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. This therapy involves the use of red and near-infrared light in the form of dynamic photonic and dynamic thermokinetic energies to treat inflammation, edema, wound healing, joint pain, or nerve pain. Unlike laser therapy used for tissue ablation or cutting, low-level laser therapy uses lower energy levels.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0552T is: ‘Low-level laser therapy, dynamic photonic and dynamic thermokinetic energies, provided by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional.’

3. Procedure

1. A physician or other qualified healthcare professional assesses the patient’s condition and determines the need for low-level laser therapy.
2. A medical device, such as the Willow Curve®, may be used to deliver the therapy. This device consists of three components: a module to capture sensory data, a computer to calculate the prescription, and a therapeutic module to deliver the low-level laser therapy.
3. The therapy session involves the application of a wide spectrum of low-level red and near-infrared light to the treatment area.
4. The dynamic nature of the therapy helps overcome the body’s natural tendency to adapt to repeated stimuli.
5. The duration and frequency of the therapy sessions may vary depending on the patient’s condition and response to treatment.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0552T can be used when a physician or other qualified healthcare professional provides low-level laser therapy using dynamic photonic and dynamic thermokinetic energies. This therapy is typically used to treat inflammation, edema, wound healing, joint pain, or nerve pain. The healthcare professional must be trained and qualified to perform the therapy.

5. When to use CPT code 0552T

CPT code 0552T should be used when a physician or other qualified healthcare professional provides low-level laser therapy using dynamic photonic and dynamic thermokinetic energies. It is important to note that the use of this therapy may be investigational or not yet approved by the FDA. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the payer regarding coverage and reimbursement policies.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0552T, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for low-level laser therapy
• Details of the therapy session, including the start and end time
• Specific information about the therapy device used
• Response and progress of the patient
• Signature of the physician or qualified healthcare professional providing the therapy

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0552T, ensure that the therapy is provided by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. Follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding coverage and reimbursement. It is also important to consider whether CPT code 0552T should be reported with any other codes for related services or procedures.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0552T was included in the Current Procedural Terminology system as a Category III code. Category III codes are temporary codes used to collect information about investigational technologies and procedures. The inclusion of a Category III code does not imply agreement concerning efficacy, safety, or appropriateness of the procedure to clinical practice or payer reimbursement.

9. Examples

1. A physician providing low-level laser therapy to a patient with chronic joint pain using dynamic photonic and dynamic thermokinetic energies.
2. A physical therapist using low-level laser therapy to treat inflammation and promote wound healing in a patient recovering from a sports injury.
3. An orthopedic surgeon utilizing low-level laser therapy to alleviate nerve pain in a patient with a herniated disc.
4. A chiropractor providing low-level laser therapy to a patient with edema to reduce swelling and promote healing.
5. A pain management specialist using low-level laser therapy to treat joint pain and improve mobility in a patient with arthritis.
6. A dermatologist utilizing low-level laser therapy to promote wound healing and reduce scarring in a patient undergoing cosmetic procedures.
7. A podiatrist providing low-level laser therapy to a patient with diabetic neuropathy to alleviate nerve pain and improve sensation.
8. A physical therapist using low-level laser therapy to treat muscle inflammation and promote recovery in a patient with a sports-related injury.
9. An acupuncturist incorporating low-level laser therapy into their treatment plan to enhance the effects of acupuncture in a patient with chronic pain.
10. A sports medicine physician utilizing low-level laser therapy to accelerate healing and reduce pain in a patient with a muscle strain.