How To Use CPT Code 97033

CPT 97033 describes the application of a modality called iontophoresis, which involves the use of electric current to deliver medicine through the skin. 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 97033?

CPT 97033 can be used to describe the application of iontophoresis, a procedure in which a provider administers a drug through intact skin by applying electric current into the tissues of the body. This modality is commonly used to treat hyperhidrosis, a condition characterized by excessive sweating of the hands, feet, and underarms. The electric current is applied by placing the part to be treated in water and gradually increasing the current. Iontophoresis can also be used to treat certain inflammatory conditions like bursitis and fasciitis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 97033 is: ‘Application of a modality to one or more areas; iontophoresis, each 15 minutes.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider assesses the patient’s condition and determines the need for iontophoresis treatment.
2. The provider selects the appropriate drug and prepares the iontophoresis equipment.
3. The part of the body to be treated is placed in water, and the provider gradually increases the electric current.
4. The provider monitors the patient during the treatment to ensure safety and effectiveness.
5. The duration of each iontophoresis session is typically 15 minutes.
6. Additional sessions may be scheduled as needed to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 97033 is used for patients who require iontophoresis treatment for conditions such as hyperhidrosis, bursitis, or fasciitis. The provider must be qualified to perform this procedure and should have the necessary equipment and knowledge to administer iontophoresis safely and effectively. Each 15-minute session of iontophoresis should be reported using one unit of CPT code 97033.

5. When to use CPT code 97033

CPT code 97033 should be used when a provider administers iontophoresis treatment to a patient for a duration of 15 minutes. This code is appropriate for each 15-minute session of iontophoresis performed. It is important to ensure that the treatment is medically necessary and supported by the patient’s diagnosis and condition.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 97033, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the medical necessity of iontophoresis treatment
• Specific drug used for iontophoresis
• Date and duration of each 15-minute session
• Areas of the body treated
• Monitoring of the patient during the treatment
• Progress made by the patient and any additional sessions scheduled
• Provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 97033, ensure that the provider is qualified to perform iontophoresis and that the treatment is medically necessary. Each 15-minute session of iontophoresis should be reported using one unit of CPT code 97033. It is important to follow the specific guidelines of the payer regarding the use of modifiers or any additional documentation requirements.

8. Historical information

CPT 97033 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1995. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2010, with the updated description reflecting the application of iontophoresis to one or more areas for each 15-minute session.

9. Examples

1. A physical therapist administering iontophoresis treatment to a patient with hyperhidrosis for 15 minutes.
2. An orthopedic specialist using iontophoresis to treat a patient with bursitis in their shoulder for 15 minutes.
3. A podiatrist applying iontophoresis to a patient’s foot to treat plantar fasciitis for 15 minutes.
4. A dermatologist using iontophoresis to treat a patient with excessive sweating of the hands for 15 minutes.
5. A sports medicine physician administering iontophoresis to a patient with inflammation in their knee for 15 minutes.
6. A physical therapist using iontophoresis to treat a patient with tendinitis in their elbow for 15 minutes.
7. An occupational therapist applying iontophoresis to a patient’s hand to treat Dupuytren’s contracture for 15 minutes.
8. A rheumatologist using iontophoresis to treat a patient with arthritis in their wrist for 15 minutes.
9. A chiropractor administering iontophoresis to a patient with muscle inflammation for 15 minutes.
10. A rehabilitation specialist using iontophoresis to treat a patient with adhesive capsulitis in their shoulder for 15 minutes.