How To Use CPT Code 97014

CPT 97014 describes the application of electrical stimulation to one or more areas by a provider, typically a physical therapist. 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 97014?

CPT 97014 can be used to describe the application of electrical stimulation to one or more areas by a provider, usually a physical therapist. This procedure, commonly known as E stim, involves placing electrodes on the patient’s skin to deliver an electrical current to muscles or nerves. The goal is to strengthen the muscles and improve blood supply to the affected area, aiding in the healing process.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 97014 is: ‘Application of a modality to one or more areas; electrical stimulation (unattended).’ This code specifically refers to the use of electrical stimulation for therapeutic purposes, excluding wound care. It is important to note that acupuncture with electrical stimulation and peripheral nerve transcutaneous magnetic stimulation have their own separate codes.

3. Procedure

1. The provider, typically a physical therapist, places electrodes on the patient’s skin in one or more locations.
2. An electrical current is delivered through the electrodes to stimulate muscles or nerves.
3. The provider determines the appropriate level of electrical current needed to contract the muscles.
4. The procedure helps to strengthen the muscles and improve blood supply to the affected area, aiding in the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 97014 is typically used for patients who require the application of electrical stimulation to restore function to a body part affected by disease or trauma. This may include individuals with head or spinal cord injuries. The procedure is commonly performed by physical therapists, but other qualified providers may also administer it.

5. When to use CPT code 97014

CPT code 97014 should be used when a provider applies electrical stimulation to one or more areas as part of a therapy plan of care. It is important to check with Medicare or Medicare HMOs, as they may require the use of HCPCS code G0283 for indications other than wound care. Medicaid or Medicare carriers may have specific requirements for reporting this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 97014, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the use of electrical stimulation
• Specific areas where the electrodes were placed
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Level of electrical current used
• Progress made by the patient
• Signature of the provider administering the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 97014, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified provider, typically a physical therapist. It is important to follow the specific guidelines set by Medicare or Medicare HMOs, as they may require the use of HCPCS code G0283 instead. Additionally, consider the location of the testing, as it may impact how the procedure is coded.

8. Historical information

CPT 97014 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2009, with the updated description reflecting the application of electrical stimulation to one or more areas.

9. Examples

1. A physical therapist applying electrical stimulation to a patient’s shoulder to aid in the recovery of a rotator cuff injury.
2. A provider using electrical stimulation to stimulate nerves in a patient’s leg following a spinal cord injury.
3. An occupational therapist applying electrical stimulation to a patient’s hand to improve muscle strength and coordination after a stroke.
4. A physical therapist using electrical stimulation to help a patient regain muscle function in their lower back after a car accident.
5. A provider applying electrical stimulation to a patient’s knee to reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.
6. A physical therapist using electrical stimulation to stimulate facial muscles in a patient with Bell’s palsy.
7. An athletic trainer applying electrical stimulation to a runner’s calf muscles to aid in the recovery of a muscle strain.
8. A provider using electrical stimulation to stimulate nerves in a patient’s foot to improve sensation and mobility after a nerve injury.
9. A physical therapist applying electrical stimulation to a patient’s neck to alleviate muscle spasms and tension.
10. An occupational therapist using electrical stimulation to stimulate hand muscles in a patient with paralysis to improve grip strength.