How To Use CPT Code 94668

CPT 94668 describes the manual manipulation of the chest wall to facilitate lung function in subsequent treatments. 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 94668?

CPT 94668 is used to describe the manual manipulation of the chest wall by a healthcare provider to improve respiratory efficiency and remove secretions from the airways. This code specifically applies to subsequent treatments following an initial service.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 94668 is: ‘Manipulation of the chest wall, such as cupping, percussing, and vibration, to facilitate lung function; subsequent.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the chest physical therapy.
2. Using techniques such as cupping, percussing, postural drainage, and hand-held vibration devices, the provider performs rhythmic manipulation of the patient’s chest and back.
3. This manipulation helps clear the bronchial airways and mobilize lung secretions, improving respiratory efficiency.
4. CPT 94668 is used for subsequent treatments following an initial service.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 94668 is applicable when a patient requires subsequent manual chest physical therapy treatment. The patient should be appropriately prepped, and the provider must use techniques such as cupping, percussing, postural drainage, and hand-held vibration devices to remove secretions from the airways and improve respiratory efficiency.

5. When to use CPT code 94668

CPT code 94668 should be used for subsequent manual chest physical therapy treatments. It is important to note that this code is not appropriate for initial treatments. For initial treatments, use CPT code 94667.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 94668, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Details of the patient’s preparation for the chest physical therapy
• Specific techniques used during the manipulation, such as cupping, percussing, postural drainage, and hand-held vibration devices
• Date and duration of the subsequent treatment
• Progress made by the patient during the treatment
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the service

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 94668, ensure that the service is a subsequent treatment and not an initial treatment. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code accurately. Additionally, consider any modifiers that may be necessary for proper billing. For more accurate coding, consult the official coding guidelines and resources.

8. Historical information

CPT 94668 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A respiratory therapist performs subsequent manual chest physical therapy on a patient with cystic fibrosis to improve respiratory efficiency.
2. A physical therapist uses cupping and percussing techniques during subsequent chest wall manipulation to mobilize lung secretions in a patient with chronic bronchitis.
3. A nurse performs subsequent chest physical therapy on a patient recovering from pneumonia to help clear the airways and improve respiratory function.
4. A physician uses hand-held vibration devices during subsequent chest wall manipulation to facilitate lung function in a patient with bronchiectasis.
5. A respiratory therapist performs subsequent manual chest physical therapy on a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to improve respiratory efficiency and remove secretions from the airways.
6. A physical therapist uses postural drainage techniques during subsequent chest wall manipulation to mobilize lung secretions in a patient with bronchiolitis.
7. A nurse performs subsequent chest physical therapy on a patient with asthma to help clear the airways and improve respiratory function.
8. A physician uses cupping and percussing techniques during subsequent chest wall manipulation to facilitate lung function in a patient with pneumonia.
9. A respiratory therapist performs subsequent manual chest physical therapy on a patient with bronchitis to improve respiratory efficiency and remove secretions from the airways.
10. A physical therapist uses hand-held vibration devices during subsequent chest wall manipulation to mobilize lung secretions in a patient with cystic fibrosis.