Overview
CPT® Code 97039 is used to report unlisted physical therapy modalities that do not have a specific CPT code. This code applies when a clinician provides a therapeutic intervention using a modality or technique not otherwise described, with time and patient attendance documented.
This code focuses on the service delivered; it does not include evaluation, assessment, or other procedures, which should be billed separately.
Key Facts About CPT® 97039
- Service type: Physical therapy/therapeutic modality
- Provider type: Physical therapists, occupational therapists, rehabilitation specialists
- Medical services included: Delivery of an unlisted therapeutic modality with documentation of type and duration
- Common clinical indications:
- Innovative or experimental physical therapy techniques
- Novel modalities not yet assigned a CPT code
- Patient-specific therapies requiring individualized application
- Advanced technology or device-based interventions not captured by standard codes
When to Use CPT® 97039
CPT 97039 is appropriate when:
- A therapeutic modality is used that does not have a specific CPT code
- The service is medically necessary and clearly documented
- The clinician records type, duration, and patient attendance
Examples:
- Application of a new device-based therapy not listed in CPT
- Specialized thermal or electrical interventions customized for a patient
- Research-based modalities implemented in clinical care with patient documentation
Documentation Requirements
To support CPT 97039 billing, documentation must include:
- Patient identifiers and date of service
- Detailed description of the modality used
- Duration of treatment (time spent with patient)
- Patient attendance confirmation
- Medical necessity for the intervention
- Clinical outcome or progress notes if applicable
Proper documentation ensures compliance, accurate reimbursement, and continuity of care.
Reimbursement and Coding Considerations
- Coverage is variable; payers may require a detailed description of the modality and justification of medical necessity
- Typically requires pre-authorization or review for novel interventions
- Must not duplicate other CPT-coded services performed on the same day
- Always verify payer-specific rules for unlisted modalities
How OptiMantra Supports Unlisted Physical Therapy Modalities
OptiMantra’s integrated EMR and practice management system simplifies documentation and billing for CPT 97039:
With OptiMantra, providers can:
- Document unlisted modalities with custom fields for type, duration, and attendance
- Track therapy sessions and patient progress over time
- Generate clean, audit-ready billing codes for reimbursement
- Integrate modality documentation with the patient’s broader care plan
- Streamline workflow for innovative therapies while ensuring compliance
By centralizing therapy documentation and billing, OptiMantra ensures accurate patient records, proper reimbursement, and seamless clinical workflows.
Try OptiMantra for free here!
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