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CPT Code 97535 - Complete Guide for Physical & Occupational Therapy Billing

A women get the tranining of self traning about the physical therapy in lab by the different elements doctor use this code for treatment 97535 CPT Code

CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes, maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA), provide a standardized way to describe medical, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures. CPT code 97535 is one of the most essential codes for therapy professionals, particularly within the scope of physical and occupational therapy services.

At Cures Billing Services, we simplify complex medical billing processes and ensure accurate claims for services like those covered under the 97535 CPT code.

What Is CPT Code 97535?

97535 CPT codes refer to self-care and home management training provided by healthcare professionals to help patients regain independence in daily life after an illness, surgery, or injury.

97535 CPT Code Descriptions:

This code covers training in:

  • Personal hygiene and grooming
  • Meal preparation
  • Use of assistive devices (e.g., walkers, reachers)
  • Home safety evaluation
  • Managing medications or daily routines

It’s commonly used in occupational therapy and physical therapy sessions.

When Is 97535 CPT Code Used?

Common Scenarios:

  • Rehabilitation after surgery (e.g., knee replacement)
  • Neurological disorders like stroke or Parkinson’s
  • Pediatric developmental delays
  • Chronic disorder management, such as swelling or spinal injuries

97535 CPT Code Example:

A therapist trains a stroke patient on how to dress independently using adaptive tools. The session lasts 30 minutes (billed as 2 units).

Who Can Bill CPT Code 97535?

Eligible Providers:

  • Occupational Therapists (OTs)
  • Physical Therapists (PTs)
  • Other licensed healthcare providers recognized by insurance payers

How to Bill 97535 CPT Code Correctly

Time-Based Billing:

  • Services are billed per 15-minute unit
  • 1 unit = 15 minutes
  • 3 units = 45 minutes

Required Documentation:

  • Specific patient goal (e.g., “Transfer from bed to chair safely”)
  • Activities performed
  • Patient progress
  • Total time spent

Use complete medical notes or time-tracking tools to avoid denials.

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Does CPT Code 97535 Require a Modifier?

Yes. When billing 97535 with other treatment codes, such as:

  • 97530 CPT code (therapeutic activities)
  • 97110 CPT code (therapeutic exercise)

You may need to append modifier -59 to show that the services were distinct and separately identifiable.

Medicare & Reimbursement Guidelines

97535 CPT Code Reimbursements:

  • Medicare repays based on medical necessity and geographic rates
  • Private insurance may vary. Cure’s Billing Services verifies coverage before billing

Important:

Some payers require prior authorization for 97535. Always verify requirements to avoid claim denials.

97535 CPT Code in Physical Therapy

In physical therapy, 97535 is used when therapists train patients to perform self-care tasks post-surgery, after injury, or during long-term care transitions.

Examples:

  • Using stairs post-knee replacement
  • Navigating the home after spinal surgery

97535 CPT Code in Occupational Therapy

In occupational therapy, this code supports patients’ learning:

  • Dressing with one hand
  • Cooking after limb loss
  • Performing hygiene tasks independently

Real-Life Use Cases

Stroke Recovery (OT)

  • Duration: 30 minutes
  • Service: Dressing and grooming training
  • Units: 2
  • Outcome: Improved independence in daily activities

Post-Surgery Rehab (PT)

  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Service: Stair navigation post-knee surgery
  • Units: 3
  • Result: Patient can navigate stairs unassisted

Final Thoughts

CPT Code 97535 is essential in therapy billing for patients who need help regaining independence. Accurate coding, proper documentation, and payer verification are key to successful reimbursement.

At Cures Billing Services, we support therapists and clinics with end-to-end billing services to reduce denials, increase payments, and stay compliant with payer guidelines.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

It’s for exercise patients in self-care and home management to improve daily living independence.

OTs, PTs, and qualified providers per payer policy.

Yes, with proper documentation and modifiers (like -59).

Sometimes. It depends on the insurance company (including Medicare).

Yes if the payer accepts it. Always confirm before the session.

It varies by region and payer. Use the Medicare Fee Schedule or consult with Cures Billing Services to determine your rate.

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