How To Use CPT Code 92620

CPT 92620 describes the evaluation of central auditory function, with a report, during an initial 60-minute session. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 92620?

CPT 92620 can be used to describe the evaluation of central auditory function by a healthcare provider. This code is used when the provider assesses the patient’s ability to process what they hear and may also identify any abnormalities in the brain. The evaluation typically lasts for 60 minutes and includes a report of the findings.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 92620 is: ‘Evaluation of central auditory function, with report; initial 60 minutes.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider assesses the patient’s auditory mechanisms, such as their ability to hear properly in a noisy environment and follow instructions.
2. Based on the initial assessment, the provider selects a battery of tests to evaluate the patient’s ability to process what they hear and potentially identify any abnormalities in the brain.
3. The evaluation may include electrophysiological tests, which measure the brain’s response to sounds, or behavioral tests, such as speech tests.
4. During the evaluation, the provider may use specialized equipment, such as a cap with sensors to measure electrical activity in the brain.
5. The evaluation typically lasts for 60 minutes and includes a report of the findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 92620 is typically performed on patients who are experiencing difficulties in processing what they hear. The evaluation helps the provider understand the specific events and environmental factors that may be affecting the patient’s auditory function. The assessment may also be used to identify any abnormalities in the brain that could be contributing to the patient’s auditory issues.

5. When to use CPT code 92620

CPT code 92620 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an initial 60-minute evaluation of central auditory function and provides a report of the findings. This code is appropriate for the first or only hour of testing. If additional time is spent on the evaluation, CPT code 92621 should be used to report each additional 15 minutes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 92620, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s auditory mechanisms and any difficulties they are experiencing in processing what they hear
• The battery of tests selected and performed during the evaluation
• The specific events and environmental factors assessed during the evaluation
• The duration of the evaluation (60 minutes)
• A detailed report of the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 92620, ensure that the evaluation is performed for the initial 60 minutes and includes a report of the findings. If additional time is spent on the evaluation, use CPT code 92621 to report each additional 15 minutes. It is important to note that CPT code 92620 should not be reported if CPT codes 92601 to 92619 have already been performed in the previous seven days.

8. Historical information

CPT 92620 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2005. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. Audiologist performing a 60-minute evaluation of central auditory function for a patient with suspected auditory processing disorder.
2. Otolaryngologist assessing the central auditory function of a patient with a history of traumatic brain injury during a 60-minute evaluation.
3. Speech-language pathologist evaluating the central auditory function of a child with developmental delays during a 60-minute session.
4. Neurologist conducting a comprehensive evaluation of central auditory function for a patient with suspected neurological abnormalities during a 60-minute session.
5. Ear, nose, and throat specialist performing an initial assessment of central auditory function for a patient with chronic ear infections during a 60-minute evaluation.
6. Pediatrician evaluating the central auditory function of a child with suspected hearing loss during a 60-minute session.
7. Neuropsychologist assessing the central auditory function of a patient with a history of stroke during a 60-minute evaluation.
8. Psychiatrist conducting an evaluation of central auditory function for a patient with schizophrenia during a 60-minute session.
9. Geriatrician evaluating the central auditory function of an elderly patient with cognitive decline during a 60-minute evaluation.
10. Primary care physician performing an initial assessment of central auditory function for a patient with memory problems during a 60-minute session.