Medical billing for physical therapy and chiropractic services often depends on the proper use of procedural codes. One such code 97012 CPT code is vital for documenting and billing mechanical traction therapy. At Cures Medical Billing, we’ve helped providers reduce denials and increase reimbursement by optimizing how this code is used.
Let’s explore the purpose, proper use, modifiers, and real-world insights for billing the 97012 CPT codes successfully.
CPT code 97012 is used to report application of mechanical traction to the spine. It’s commonly billed in physical therapy, chiropractic, and pain management settings.
97012 CPT code descriptions: “Application of a modality to one or more parts; traction, mechanical.”
Use this code when:
CPT code 97012 mechanical traction is non-timed, meaning you bill it once per session regardless of duration.
This code is frequently used in:
97012 CPT code chiropractic practices uses is common when mechanical traction devices are part of routine patient care.
97012 CPT code reimbursement rates vary based on:
At Cures Medical Billing, we’ve seen that using the correct modifier and documenting medical necessity improves approval rates.
Yes, often.
The need for a 97012 CPT code modifier depends on:
Example: Use modifier GP when the service is part of a physical therapy plan of care.
Use 59 when traction is distinct from other procedures performed on the same day.
While some confuse it with codes like 97014 CPT codes (electrical stimulation) or manual traction CPT code (which isn’t separately billable), 97012 is not interchangeable with these.
We often get questions like “Is 97012 CPT code interchangeable with 97140 CPT code?”
No. 97140 denotes to manual therapy techniques, not manual traction.
Reimbursement varies:
In a recent case, a provider submitted 97012 with 97110 CPT code (therapeutic exercise) and 97140 CPT code (manual therapy) on the same day. The claim was denied due to missing modifier 59. After correcting it, reimbursement was approved within 14 days.
This highlights how crucial correct modifier use and sequencing is when billing 97012 CPT code alongside other modalities.
Accurate use of the 97012 CPT codes can improve patient care outcomes and help your practice get reimbursed efficiently. At Cures, we specialize in ensuring providers understand the nuances of each CPT code from modifiers to documentation, to maximize approval rates.
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Yes, often. Use GP for physical therapy and 59 when multiple treatments are performed in the same visit.
No. 97012 CPT code timed answer: It’s a non-timed code, billed once per treatment regardless of duration.
Yes, but you must use appropriate modifiers to avoid bundling denials.
Yes, when billed with other therapy services like 97110 or 97140 on the same date, modifier 59 is often required to indicate a distinct procedure. Modifier GP should also be involved if the service is part of a physical therapy plan of care.
CPT code 97012 is an untimed code, meaning you can only bill it once per treatment session, regardless of the number of minutes traction was applied.
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