Overview
CPT® code 99408 is used for reporting structured screening and brief intervention services for alcohol and/or substance abuse that last between 15 and 30 minutes. This code supports preventive and behavioral health efforts by compensating clinicians for time spent identifying and addressing risky substance use behaviors before they escalate into more serious conditions.
When to Use CPT® 99408
Use CPT® 99408 when a structured screening tool (such as AUDIT, DAST, or ASSIST) is administered and a brief intervention is provided to discuss results, promote behavior change, and motivate the patient toward treatment or reduced use.
- The total face-to-face time must be 15 to 30 minutes.
- If the time is less than 15 minutes, report 99408 should not be used (consider 99406 or other preventive counseling codes).
- If the service exceeds 30 minutes, use 99409 instead.
Billing Requirements
- Must be face-to-face and include both the screening and intervention components.
- Document:
- The screening tool used
- The results and level of risk identified
- The discussion and intervention performed
- Total time spent on the service
- May be reported in addition to an E/M service on the same date, if the requirements for both services are met and documented separately with modifier 25 on the E/M code.
- Can be billed by physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and qualified health professionals.
Reimbursement and Coverage Notes
Many insurance payers, including Medicare and Medicaid, recognize CPT® 99408 as part of preventive or behavioral health benefits. However, coverage can vary, so verifying payer-specific policies before billing is important.
Common Clinical Scenarios
- A patient with elevated alcohol screening results receives a 20-minute counseling session on reducing consumption.
- A provider conducts a structured substance use risk assessment followed by motivational interviewing for 25 minutes.
Documentation Example
“Administered AUDIT-C screening (score 7). Discussed health risks of current drinking patterns and provided motivational counseling on reducing intake. Patient committed to tracking consumption and follow-up in 4 weeks. Total time: 22 minutes.”
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