CPT Codes
CPT Codes (Current Procedural Terminology Codes) are standardized numbers that healthcare providers use to bill for medical services and procedures. Think of them like price tags or menu items - each medical service has its own specific code. In Physical Therapy, these codes help describe what treatments were given to patients, which is essential for insurance billing and payment. For example, there are different codes for initial evaluations, therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and other common PT treatments. Understanding CPT codes is crucial because they directly link to how healthcare providers get paid and how they document patient care.
Examples in Resumes
Managed accurate CPT Code documentation for over 50 patient visits per week
Trained new staff on proper CPT Codes usage and billing procedures
Increased clinic revenue by 25% through improved CPT Code accuracy and documentation
Typical job title: "Physical Therapists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Physical Therapists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where insurance denies payment due to incorrect CPT code usage?
Expected Answer: A senior PT should discuss reviewing documentation, verifying correct code selection, understanding medical necessity, appealing with proper documentation, and implementing preventive measures for future accuracy.
Q: How do you stay current with CPT code changes and updates?
Expected Answer: Should mention regular review of coding updates, participation in continuing education, subscription to coding newsletters, and maintaining APTA membership for latest information.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What CPT codes would you use for a typical PT evaluation session?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the difference between low, moderate, and high complexity evaluation codes and when to use each based on patient conditions.
Q: How do you ensure proper documentation to support your CPT code selection?
Expected Answer: Should discuss matching treatment notes to selected codes, including time spent, specific interventions, and patient response to justify billing.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the most common CPT codes used in physical therapy?
Expected Answer: Should know basic therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, and evaluation codes used in everyday practice.
Q: How do you determine the appropriate number of units to bill for a treatment?
Expected Answer: Should understand time-based coding rules and how to calculate units based on treatment duration.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of common PT CPT codes
- Simple documentation skills
- Knowledge of time-based coding
- Basic insurance billing understanding
Mid (2-5 years)
- Accurate code selection for complex cases
- Proper documentation to support billing
- Understanding of insurance requirements
- Ability to train others on basic coding
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert knowledge of all PT-related codes
- Audit and compliance experience
- Team training and supervision
- Complex case management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic CPT code categories
- Poor understanding of documentation requirements
- Lack of knowledge about insurance billing processes
- No experience with electronic health records systems
- Unfamiliarity with Medicare/Medicaid billing rules
