How To Use CPT Code 97022

CPT 97022 describes the application of a modality to one or more areas using the whirlpool method of treatment. 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 97022?

CPT 97022 can be used to describe the application of a modality, specifically the whirlpool method of treatment, to one or more areas of the body. This code is used when a healthcare professional utilizes a whirlpool, which is a special bathtub with pumps that produce and circulate air bubbles and water, to provide therapy to a patient. The whirlpool action helps improve blood circulation, range of motion, and aids in the treatment of wounds such as ulcers, burns, and superficial abrasions.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 97022 is: ‘Application of a modality to one or more areas; whirlpool.’

3. Procedure

1. A certified healthcare provider guides the patient to partially immerse themselves in a heated tank of water with a predetermined specific temperature.
2. The water in the tank is agitated, creating motion that softens and loosens dead tissue, debris, slough, and necrotic tissues.
3. This motion also facilitates proper blood circulation and nutrition to the affected wound, promoting faster healing and pain relief.
4. The whirlpool therapy session may last from 10 to 30 minutes and can be provided once or twice daily, depending on the patient’s needs.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 97022 is appropriate for patients who require whirlpool therapy as part of their treatment plan. This modality is commonly used for the treatment of wounds such as ulcers, burns, and superficial abrasions. The patient must be under the care of a certified healthcare provider who determines the necessity of whirlpool therapy based on the patient’s condition and needs.

5. When to use CPT code 97022

CPT code 97022 should be used when a certified healthcare provider applies the whirlpool method of treatment to one or more areas of the patient’s body. It is important to note that this code should not be used for other modalities or treatments that do not involve the use of a whirlpool.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 97022, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The specific areas of the body where the whirlpool therapy was applied
• The duration of each whirlpool therapy session
• The frequency of the sessions (once or twice daily)
• The patient’s response to the therapy and any observed improvements
• The signature of the certified healthcare provider providing the service

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 97022, ensure that the healthcare provider is certified and qualified to provide whirlpool therapy. It is important to accurately report the areas of the body where the therapy was applied and the duration of each session. CPT code 97022 should not be reported with other codes unless there are specific circumstances that warrant additional codes. It is crucial to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and to use appropriate modifiers if necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT 97022 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 a modality to one or more areas using the whirlpool method of treatment.

9. Examples

1. A physical therapist providing whirlpool therapy to a patient with a burn injury on their leg.
2. An occupational therapist using the whirlpool method to treat a patient with an ulcer on their foot.
3. A wound care specialist utilizing whirlpool therapy to aid in the healing of a superficial abrasion on a patient’s arm.
4. A nurse providing whirlpool therapy to a patient with multiple ulcers on their lower back.
5. A certified healthcare provider using the whirlpool method to treat a patient with a burn injury on their hand.
6. A physical therapist providing whirlpool therapy to a patient with a superficial abrasion on their knee.
7. An occupational therapist utilizing the whirlpool method to treat a patient with an ulcer on their ankle.
8. A wound care specialist using whirlpool therapy to aid in the healing of a burn injury on a patient’s chest.
9. A nurse providing whirlpool therapy to a patient with multiple ulcers on their upper back.
10. A certified healthcare provider using the whirlpool method to treat a patient with a superficial abrasion on their elbow.