The 97014 CPT codes are assigned for delivering electrical muscle stimulation without constant supervision in rehab or chiropractic therapy. In practice, 97014 is used when a therapist applies an electrical stimulation device and leaves the patient to receive treatment (hands-free EMS). This modality helps manage pain, reduce inflammation, and promote muscle recovery without the therapist’s constant presence.
In clinics, treatments using 97014 often last 15–30 minutes, applying electrodes to sore or weak muscles. Key uses include chronic musculoskeletal pain relief and muscle strengthening in rehab programs.
CPT 97014 is defined as “Application of a modality to 1 or more areas; electrical inspiration (unattended), each 15 minutes.” In physical therapy, this means the clinician assigns electrodes to the patient and programs an EMS device, then steps away (the device runs automatically).
This contrasts with CPT 97032 (attended electrical stimulation), where the provider actively adjusts the device with the patient. Unattended EMS under 97014 is not timed in the way exercise codes are; one unit covers the entire treatment session, regardless of length (typically up to 30 minutes).
A crucial issue with 97014 is Medicare coverage. Medicare does not diagnose CPT 97014 for compensation. CMS has explicitly stated that “CPT® code 97014 is an invalid code on the Medicare fee schedule and should not be reported. Thus, several claims to Medicare by 97014 will be denied.
Feature CPT 97014 HCPCS G0283
Code Type CPT (Physical Medicine & Rehab) HCPCS (Medicare-specific)
Service Unattended electrical stimulation Unmonitored electrical therapy
Medicare Use Not covered – Invalid Covered by Medicare.
Typical Payers: Most commercial insurers and workers’ all Medicare suppliers and various payers
Payment varies by insurer; around $10–$20 per unit (15 min.) Paid under Medicare – reimbursement
Modifiers attach to the GP. For OT, attach GO (see below). Same modifiers (GP/GO).
Notes: Not timed; one unit per session. If for private payers, confirm health necessity.
Classified as a “supervised modality” in Medicare’s NCD, but the therapist does not stay with the patient. 50% reduction applies if billed with other PT services on the same day (MPPR policy).
When billing for physical therapy treatments such as 97014, adding the correct modifier helps specify the therapy type:
For example, when filing a Medicare claim involving code 97014 (commonly reported as G0283), it’s important to include the GP modifier if the therapy is part of a documented physical therapy plan of care.
The cost to deliver 97014 is relatively low: the EMS device and reusable electrodes are the main expenses. From a billing perspective, providers should be aware of typical reimbursement rates. Published data suggest wide variation, but one industry analysis found average paid amounts of roughly $10–$20 per unit (each 15-minute service) for both 97014 and G0283.
This range depends on insurer contracts and location. (Hospitals, clinics, and outpatient settings may each have different fee schedules.)
Keep in mind:
Using the wrong code or omitting a needed modifier can trigger denials and audits. For example, billing 97014 on a Medicare patient not only leads to immediate rejection, but it can also flag your account for review.
A denied EMS claim costs time and money to fix – one study estimated ~$180 in administrative costs per denied claim. Worse, incorrect coding may lead to recoupment if identified in an audit.
Navigating CPT 97014 from distinguishing it from G0283 to applying the right modifiers can be complex. Cure’s Billing Services specializes in therapy billing compliance. Our team stays current on Medicare policy and payer requirements so you don’t have to.
If you need expert guidance on EMS billing or any physical therapy codes, contact Cures Billing Services today. We specialize in improving your reimbursement rates, applying the correct modifiers (like GP, GO, KX), and resolving claim denials efficiently. Let us manage the complexities of coding so you can dedicate more time to your patients.
CPT Code 97014 refers to unattended electrical stimulation therapy. It’s used in physical therapy to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing—without the therapist being physically present during the procedure.
Note: CPT 97014 is not recognized by Medicare. In its place, Medicare uses G0283 for the same service.
Yes, CPT 97014 is still valid for non-Medicare payers in 2025. However, Medicare and some commercial insurers require the use of G0283 for electrical stimulation not requiring constant attendance.
The key difference is whether constant one-on-one contact is required.
Licensed professionals such as:
can bill this code if the treatment is medically necessary and within scope of practice.
No, CPT 97014 is not time-based. It is a service-based code, which means you can bill one unit per session, regardless of how long the therapy lasted—unless payer-specific rules state otherwise.
Commonly used modifiers include:
Check payer policy to ensure compliance.
Typical ICD-10 codes to justify electrical stimulation may include:
Always link your ICD-10 diagnosis to the patient’s treatment plan and goals.
Yes, but only if each service is distinct and well-documented. For example:
Make sure to use modifiers (e.g., 59) if there is risk of bundling or denial.
Reimbursement varies by:
As a over-all note, Medicare does not pay for 97014. For non-Medicare payers, typical reimbursement may range from $10–$25 per session, depending on the contract.
Working with an experienced billing company helps improve clean claim rates.
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