How To Use CPT Code 93701

CPT 93701 describes a noninvasive procedure that measures certain physiological cardiac parameters using bioimpedance. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 93701?

CPT 93701 is a code used to describe a noninvasive procedure that measures specific physiological cardiac parameters using bioimpedance. This test helps evaluate the cardiovascular health of the patient by assessing changes in the electrical resistance of the chest. By measuring these changes, the provider can monitor and diagnose cardiovascular conditions.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 93701 is a noninvasive physiologic study that uses bioimpedance to measure changes in the electrical resistance of the chest. This measurement reflects blood volume changes and aids in the diagnostic monitoring of cardiovascular health.

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and has them lie on an exam table.
2. Four sets of dual sensors are applied to the patient’s neck and thorax.
3. The provider passes electrical signals through the patient’s thorax, which travel along the blood-filled aorta.
4. Changes in bioimpedance at each heartbeat are noted, indicating changes in volume and velocity of blood in the aorta.
5. Physiological parameters, such as cardiac output, are measured from the bioimpedance results to analyze the patient’s cardiovascular health.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 93701 is performed on patients who require diagnostic monitoring of their cardiovascular health. It is used to assess changes in the electrical resistance of the chest, which reflect blood volume changes. This procedure is typically performed by providers who specialize in cardiovascular health and have the necessary equipment and expertise to interpret the results.

5. When to use CPT code 93701

CPT code 93701 should be used when a noninvasive physiologic study using bioimpedance is performed to measure changes in the electrical resistance of the chest. This procedure is appropriate for patients who require diagnostic monitoring of their cardiovascular health. It is important to ensure that the provider performing the procedure has the necessary qualifications and equipment to accurately interpret the results.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 93701, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the procedure and the patient’s cardiovascular health concerns
• Details of the procedure, including the application of sensors and the measurement of bioimpedance
• Results of the physiological parameters measured, such as cardiac output
• Interpretation of the results and any additional actions taken based on the findings
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 93701, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. The provider should have the necessary qualifications and equipment to perform the procedure accurately. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or regulatory authorities. CPT code 93701 should not be reported with other codes unless specifically instructed to do so.

8. Historical information

CPT 93701 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2002. There have been historical changes to the code, including a code change on January 1, 2010, which updated the description to specify “Bioimpedance, thoracic, electrical.”

9. Examples

1. A cardiologist performing a noninvasive physiologic study using bioimpedance to measure changes in the electrical resistance of the chest for a patient with suspected heart failure.
2. A cardiovascular specialist using CPT code 93701 to assess the cardiovascular health of a patient with a history of arrhythmias.
3. A provider performing a noninvasive physiologic study using bioimpedance to monitor changes in the electrical resistance of the chest during exercise for a patient with suspected coronary artery disease.
4. A cardiac electrophysiologist using CPT code 93701 to evaluate the cardiovascular health of a patient with a pacemaker.
5. A provider performing a noninvasive physiologic study using bioimpedance to measure changes in the electrical resistance of the chest before and after a pharmacological stress test for a patient with suspected myocardial ischemia.
6. A cardiovascular specialist using CPT code 93701 to assess the cardiovascular health of a patient with a history of hypertension.
7. A provider performing a noninvasive physiologic study using bioimpedance to monitor changes in the electrical resistance of the chest during rest and stress for a patient with suspected valvular heart disease.
8. A cardiologist using CPT code 93701 to evaluate the cardiovascular health of a patient with a family history of sudden cardiac death.
9. A provider performing a noninvasive physiologic study using bioimpedance to measure changes in the electrical resistance of the chest for a patient with suspected cardiomyopathy.
10. A cardiovascular specialist using CPT code 93701 to assess the cardiovascular health of a patient with a history of stroke.