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Official Description

Evaluation of central auditory function, with report; each additional 15 minutes (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 92621 pertains to the evaluation of central auditory function, specifically focusing on the brain's ability to process auditory information received from the peripheral nervous system. This evaluation is crucial for understanding how well an individual can interpret sounds and speech, which can be affected by various auditory processing disorders. During the assessment, an audiologist collects comprehensive medical, developmental, and family histories that relate to the patient's auditory processing capabilities. Following this, a series of standardized tests are conducted, utilizing a diagnostic audiometer to present auditory stimuli at specific decibel levels. One of the primary tests performed is word recognition, where the patient is instructed to repeat words as they are presented. The audiologist meticulously records the patient's responses, scoring each test based on both raw and standardized metrics, which are then visually represented on a graph for analysis. Throughout the testing process, the audiologist provides clear instructions and closely monitors the patient's performance to ensure accurate results. Upon completion of the tests, the audiologist interprets the findings, taking into account the patient's age and identifying any specific stimuli or environments that may negatively impact their central auditory function. A detailed report summarizing the results is prepared for the referring physician, and if applicable, shared with an interdisciplinary team involved in the patient's care. It is important to note that CPT® Code 92621 is used to bill for each additional 15 minutes of evaluation beyond the initial 60 minutes covered by CPT® Code 92620.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The evaluation of central auditory function using CPT® Code 92621 is indicated for patients who exhibit symptoms or conditions that may affect their auditory processing abilities. These indications may include:

  • Auditory Processing Disorders - Conditions where the brain has difficulty processing auditory information, leading to challenges in understanding spoken language.
  • Hearing Loss - Patients with hearing loss may require evaluation to determine the extent of their auditory processing capabilities.
  • Developmental Delays - Children with developmental delays may need assessment to identify any underlying auditory processing issues.
  • Language Delays - Individuals with language delays may benefit from an evaluation to assess their auditory processing skills.
  • Neurological Conditions - Patients with neurological disorders that may impact auditory processing, such as traumatic brain injury or stroke, may require this evaluation.

2. Procedure

The procedure for evaluating central auditory function involves several key steps, each designed to assess the patient's auditory processing abilities comprehensively. The steps include:

  • Step 1: Patient History Collection - The audiologist begins by obtaining a thorough medical, developmental, and family history related to the patient's auditory processing skills. This information is critical for understanding the context of the patient's auditory challenges.
  • Step 2: Test Administration - Standardized tests are performed using a diagnostic audiometer. The audiologist presents auditory stimuli at predetermined decibel levels, ensuring consistency across tests. The tests may include various formats, such as word recognition tasks.
  • Step 3: Patient Instructions - Before each test, the audiologist provides clear instructions to the patient regarding what is expected during the test. This may involve repeating words or identifying sounds.
  • Step 4: Response Recording - As the patient responds to the auditory stimuli, the audiologist meticulously records the responses. Each response is scored using both raw and standardized scoring methods to evaluate performance accurately.
  • Step 5: Data Analysis - The audiologist plots the scores on a graph to visualize the patient's performance across different tests. This graphical representation aids in identifying patterns and areas of concern.
  • Step 6: Interpretation of Results - After completing the tests, the audiologist interprets the results, considering the patient's age and specific auditory processing challenges. This interpretation helps in understanding the impact of various stimuli and environments on the patient's auditory function.
  • Step 7: Reporting - Finally, the audiologist compiles a comprehensive report detailing the findings and interpretations. This report is shared with the referring physician and, if applicable, with an interdisciplinary team involved in the patient's care.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the evaluation of central auditory function typically involves reviewing the results with the patient and their family. The audiologist may discuss the implications of the findings and recommend further interventions or therapies if necessary. Additionally, the audiologist may provide guidance on strategies to improve auditory processing skills in various environments. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor progress and reassess auditory function as needed. It is essential for the patient to understand the results and how they may affect their daily communication and learning experiences.

Short Descr AUDITORY FUNCTION + 15 MIN
Medium Descr EVAL CENTRAL AUDITORY FUNCJ W/REPRT EA 15 MIN
Long Descr Evaluation of central auditory function, with report; each additional 15 minutes (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 02 - Procedure must be performed under the direct supervision of a physician.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T2D - Other tests - other
MUE 2
CCS Clinical Classification 220 - Ophthalmologic and otologic diagnosis and treatment

This is an add-on code that must be used in conjunction with one of these primary codes.

92620 MPFS Status: Active Code APC Q1 Physician Quality Reporting PUB 100 CPT Assistant Article Evaluation of central auditory function, with report; initial 60 minutes
AB Audiology service furnished personally by an audiologist without a physician/npp order for non-acute hearing assessment unrelated to disequilibrium, or hearing aids, or examinations for the purpose of prescribing, fitting, or changing hearing aids; service may be performed once every 12 months, per beneficiary
GY Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
76 Repeat procedure or service by same physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was repeated by the same physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 76 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service.
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
Date
Action
Notes
2012-01-01 Changed Description Changed
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2005-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2005.
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Description
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