How To Use CPT Code 98941

CPT 98941 describes the chiropractic manipulative treatment (CMT) performed on three to four spinal regions. 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 98941?

CPT 98941 is used to describe the chiropractic manipulative treatment (CMT) provided by a qualified chiropractic professional on three to four spinal regions. This code represents the application of manipulation techniques and modalities to influence joint and neurophysiological function, relieve muscular or joint pain, relieve tension, and improve joint mobility and neurophysiological function.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 98941 is: ‘Chiropractic manipulative treatment (CMT); spinal, three to four regions.’

3. Procedure

1. The chiropractic professional takes a detailed medical history from the patient and may perform X-rays of the target anatomical site.
2. Based on the initial investigation, the provider decides on a course of treatment.
3. The patient lies down on a special treatment table adjusted to their height.
4. The chiropractic professional performs therapy ranging from light touching to vigorous manipulation and massaging on the three to four spinal regions.
5. The treatment may require multiple sessions for completion.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 98941 is applicable when a qualified chiropractic professional provides manipulative treatment on three to four spinal regions. The treatment aims to relieve muscular or joint pain, relieve tension, and improve joint mobility and neurophysiological function.

5. When to use CPT code 98941

CPT code 98941 should be used when a qualified chiropractic professional performs manipulative treatment on three to four spinal regions. It is important to note that for treatment involving one to two regions, CPT code 98940 should be used. For treatment involving five regions, CPT code 98942 is appropriate.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 98941, the chiropractic professional must document the following information:

• Detailed medical history of the patient
• Results of any X-rays performed
• Date and duration of each treatment session
• Specific spinal regions treated
• Techniques and modalities used during the treatment
• Progress made by the patient

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 98941, ensure that the provider is a qualified chiropractic professional and that the treatment is performed on three to four spinal regions. It is important to follow payer policies regarding reporting a significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management (E/M) service performed on the same date with modifier 25 appended to the E/M code.

8. Historical information

CPT 98941 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1997. The code was later changed on January 1, 2009 to its current description.

9. Examples

1. A qualified chiropractic professional performing manipulative treatment on three spinal regions to relieve a patient’s lower back pain.
2. A chiropractor providing therapy on four spinal regions to improve joint mobility and relieve tension in a patient with neck stiffness.
3. A patient receiving manipulative treatment on three spinal regions to alleviate shoulder pain and improve neurophysiological function.
4. A chiropractic professional performing CMT on four spinal regions to relieve tension and improve joint mobility in a patient with mid-back discomfort.
5. A qualified chiropractor providing manipulative treatment on three spinal regions to alleviate hip pain and improve muscular function.
6. A patient receiving therapy on four spinal regions to relieve tension and improve joint mobility in the upper back.
7. A chiropractic professional performing manipulative treatment on three spinal regions to alleviate headaches and improve neurophysiological function.
8. A qualified chiropractor providing CMT on four spinal regions to relieve tension and improve joint mobility in a patient with sciatica.
9. A patient receiving therapy on three spinal regions to alleviate discomfort in the thoracic region and improve muscular function.
10. A chiropractic professional performing manipulative treatment on four spinal regions to relieve tension and improve joint mobility in a patient with sacroiliac joint dysfunction.