How To Use CPT Code 92523

CPT 92523 pertains to the evaluation of speech sound production, which is a critical assessment performed by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to identify and address various speech and language disorders. This evaluation encompasses a comprehensive analysis of a patient’s articulation, phonological processes, apraxia, and dysarthria, alongside an assessment of their language comprehension and expression. By utilizing standardized testing methods, the SLP can gain insights into the patient’s communication abilities, identifying areas of strength and those requiring intervention.

1. What is CPT code 92523?

CPT code 92523 represents a specialized evaluation conducted by a speech-language pathologist that focuses on assessing speech sound production and language skills. This code is utilized when a patient undergoes a thorough examination to identify issues related to articulation, phonological processes, apraxia, and dysarthria. The evaluation also includes an assessment of both receptive language, which refers to the ability to understand spoken language, and expressive language, which pertains to the ability to communicate effectively. The purpose of this evaluation is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s communication capabilities, which can inform subsequent therapeutic interventions if necessary.

2. Qualifying Circumstances

This CPT code can be used in specific clinical situations where a patient exhibits difficulties in speech sound production or language comprehension. It is appropriate for individuals who may have been referred for evaluation due to concerns about their speech clarity, language understanding, or expressive communication abilities. Limitations may arise if the patient does not present with any identifiable speech or language issues, or if the evaluation is not conducted by a qualified speech-language pathologist. Scenarios where this code would be inappropriate include routine screenings without any reported concerns or evaluations that do not encompass both speech sound production and language assessment.

3. When To Use CPT 92523

CPT code 92523 is used when a speech-language pathologist conducts a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s speech sound production alongside their language comprehension and expression. This code should be applied when the assessment includes standardized testing to measure articulation, phonological processes, apraxia, and dysarthria, as well as receptive and expressive language skills. It is important to note that this code cannot be used in conjunction with codes that represent other types of evaluations or assessments that do not focus on speech sound production and language skills. The SLP must ensure that the evaluation is thorough and meets the criteria for this specific code.

4. Official Description of CPT 92523

Official Descriptor: Evaluation of speech sound production (eg, articulation, phonological process, apraxia, dysarthria); with evaluation of language comprehension and expression (eg, receptive and expressive language).

5. Clinical Application

CPT 92523 is applied in clinical settings where speech and language disorders are suspected or diagnosed. The evaluation serves as a foundational step in understanding a patient’s communication abilities and identifying specific areas that may require therapeutic intervention. The importance of this service lies in its ability to provide a detailed assessment of both speech sound production and language skills, which can guide treatment planning and improve patient outcomes. By identifying challenges in communication, the SLP can tailor therapy to address the unique needs of each patient, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively.

5.1 Provider Responsibilities

The speech-language pathologist is responsible for conducting a comprehensive evaluation that includes several key steps. Initially, the SLP gathers background information about the patient, including medical history and any previous evaluations. Following this, the SLP administers standardized tests to assess speech sound production, focusing on articulation, phonological processes, apraxia, and dysarthria. Concurrently, the SLP evaluates the patient’s receptive and expressive language skills through various tasks and activities. After completing the assessment, the SLP analyzes the results to identify strengths and weaknesses in the patient’s communication abilities, ultimately providing recommendations for therapy if necessary.

5.2 Unique Challenges

One of the unique challenges associated with this evaluation is the variability in patient responses, which can be influenced by factors such as age, cognitive abilities, and motivation. Additionally, some patients may have co-occurring conditions that complicate the assessment process, making it difficult to isolate specific speech or language issues. The SLP must be adept at adapting their evaluation techniques to accommodate these challenges, ensuring that they obtain accurate and meaningful results that reflect the patient’s true communication abilities.

5.3 Pre-Procedure Preparations

Before conducting the evaluation, the speech-language pathologist must prepare by reviewing the patient’s medical history and any previous assessments. This preparation may involve gathering information from caregivers or other healthcare providers to understand the patient’s communication challenges better. The SLP may also need to select appropriate standardized tests that align with the patient’s age and specific concerns, ensuring that the evaluation is tailored to their unique needs.

5.4 Post-Procedure Considerations

After the evaluation, the speech-language pathologist must provide feedback to the patient and their caregivers regarding the results. This may include discussing identified strengths and areas for improvement in speech sound production and language skills. If therapy is recommended, the SLP will outline a treatment plan that addresses the specific challenges identified during the evaluation. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor progress and adjust the therapy plan as needed, ensuring that the patient receives ongoing support in their communication development.

6. Relevant Terminology

Expressive language: The ability to use language to convey wants, needs, and ideas. This includes the production of speech and the use of vocabulary and grammar to communicate effectively.

Receptive language: The ability to understand and process spoken language, including following directions and comprehending verbal information. This skill is essential for effective communication and interaction with others.

7. Clinical Examples

1. A child is referred for evaluation due to concerns about unclear speech and difficulty following directions in the classroom.

2. An adult presents with speech difficulties following a stroke, impacting their ability to articulate words and understand conversations.

3. A preschooler is assessed for speech sound production issues, particularly with certain consonant sounds, affecting their ability to communicate with peers.

4. A teenager with a history of speech delays undergoes evaluation to determine their current speech and language skills before transitioning to high school.

5. An elderly patient is evaluated for dysarthria following a neurological condition, impacting their speech clarity and language comprehension.

6. A child with suspected apraxia is assessed to identify specific speech sound production challenges and develop an appropriate therapy plan.

7. An adult with a learning disability is evaluated to assess their expressive language skills and determine the need for targeted support.

8. A patient recovering from a traumatic brain injury is assessed for both speech sound production and language comprehension to guide rehabilitation efforts.

9. A child with a speech delay is evaluated to identify their strengths in receptive language and areas needing improvement in expressive language.

10. An individual with a history of speech therapy returns for a follow-up evaluation to assess progress in speech sound production and language skills.