What is Current Procedure Terminology (CPT) codes?

• A. They are immunization codes
• B. They are diagnostic imaging codes for radiology
• C. They are historical codes no longer used
• D. They are standardized coding system for all medical services used to determine payment

Answer: (D)

Current Procedure Terminology codes are a standardized coding system used to describe medical services and procedures for reimbursement. Maintained by the American Medical Association, CPT covers a broad range of services—from office visits and surgeries to imaging, laboratories, and anesthesia. Payers use CPT codes, in combination with diagnosis codes (ICD-10-CM), to determine payment amounts and processing. They are not limited to immunizations, not exclusive to diagnostic imaging, and they are not historical; CPT is actively updated each year to reflect new procedures and technologies. This is why the correct answer describes CPT as a standardized coding system for all medical services used to determine payment.