Preview of CPT® Code Changes for 2020 and 2021
The CPT® Editorial Panel’s February 2019 meeting introduced several key updates set to take effect in CPT 2020 and 2021, including significant revisions, deletions, and additions across multiple specialties.
Major Changes for CPT 2021
The most notable update is the revision of office and outpatient E/M codes (99201-99215), scheduled for implementation in 2021. Additional changes include:
Breast Reconstruction Codes: Major revisions to breast reconstruction codes and guidelines. Several codes are being updated, while 19324 (Mammaplasty, augmentation; without prosthetic implant) and 19366 (Breast reconstruction with other technique) are slated for deletion.
Lung Biopsy: 32405 (Biopsy, lung or mediastinum, percutaneous needle) will be deleted, with a new code added to report core needle biopsy of the lung or mediastinum.
Vestibular & Auditory Testing:
- Three new codes for vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing.
- Four new codes for auditory evoked potentials, replacing 92585 and 92586.
Exercise Test for Bronchospasm: A new code will be introduced alongside a revision of 94617 (Exercise test for bronchospasm).
Approved Changes for CPT 2020
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Influenza Vaccine: A new code for a quadrivalent inactivated-adjuvanted influenza virus vaccine.
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Cardiac Device Evaluation: 93299 (Interrogation device evaluation) will be deleted.
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Cancer Stem Cell Assay: A new Category III code for this procedure.
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Autologous Cellular Implant: Two new Category III codes added.
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Meibomian Gland Evacuation: A new Category III code introduced.
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Fallopian Tube Occlusion: Two new Category III codes for transcervical bilateral permanent occlusion, along with a code for saline confirmation via sonosalpingingraphy.
- Procedure Deletions:
- 21296 (Reduction of masseter muscle and bone)
- 43401 (Transection of esophagus with repair for esophageal varices) due to low utilization.
These updates reflect ongoing efforts to refine medical coding and improve accuracy in reporting procedures.