CPT® Code 97140 is used to report manual therapy techniques applied to one or more regions of the body, each for 15 minutes of direct, one-on-one patient contact. These techniques include mobilization/manipulation, manual lymphatic drainage, and manual traction.
Overview
Manual therapy is a cornerstone of physical and occupational therapy, employing hands-on techniques to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance function. CPT 97140 encompasses a range of interventions such as:
- Joint mobilization/manipulation: Techniques to improve joint range of motion.
- Manual lymphatic drainage: Gentle massage to stimulate lymph flow and reduce edema.
- Manual traction: Application of force to stretch and mobilize joints and soft tissues.
These services are typically provided by licensed professionals like physical therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, and other qualified healthcare providers.
Typical Patient Description
A patient presents with a two-month history of neck, shoulder, and upper back pain, accompanied by soft tissue tightness and hypomobility in the cervical and upper thoracic spine. The therapist performs direct one-on-one manual therapy services, including joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques, to address these issues.
Care Components
- Direct, one-on-one patient contact: The therapist must be physically present and engaged with the patient during the entire 15-minute session.
- Skilled manual techniques: Application of specific manual therapy methods tailored to the patient's condition.
- Documentation: Detailed records of the techniques used, areas treated, duration, and patient response are essential for billing and reimbursement.
Billing Considerations
- Time-based code: CPT 97140 is billed in 15-minute increments. For example, a 30-minute session would be billed as two units.
- Modifier 59: When CPT 97140 is performed in conjunction with other services (e.g., therapeutic exercises coded as CPT 97110) during the same session but in separate time intervals, Modifier 59 may be required to indicate that the services are distinct and separately identifiable.
- Documentation: Accurate and thorough documentation is crucial. This includes the specific manual therapy techniques employed, the anatomical areas treated, the duration of each service, and the patient's response to the treatment.
Using CPT 97140 in OptiMantra
OptiMantra, an integrated Electronic Health Record (EHR) and practice management platform, facilitates the documentation and billing of CPT 97140 by:
- Providing customizable templates: Tailored SOAP notes and therapy documentation templates help ensure all necessary information is captured.
- Streamlining billing processes: Automated billing features assist in generating accurate claims, including the appropriate use of modifiers like Modifier 59 when required.
- Enhancing compliance: Built-in checks and prompts support adherence to payer requirements and reduce the risk of claim denials.
By leveraging OptiMantra's features, healthcare providers can efficiently document manual therapy services, ensure accurate billing, and maintain compliance with insurance guidelines.
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