CPT Code 97799: Unlisted Physical Medicine/ Rehabilitation Service or Procedure

What is an unlisted physical medicine service?

CPT code 97799 is designated for unlisted physical medicine and rehabilitation services when no specific CPT code accurately describes the therapy services provided. It’s commonly used by physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare providers when delivering physical and occupational therapy treatments that fall outside standard classifications.

Since the 97799 CPT code does not define a specific procedure, it requires thorough documentation of the physical therapy service or procedure, including the nature of the treatment, time spent, and clinical rationale. This ensures accurate documentation and helps prevent billing mistakes or claim denials.

Because this is an unlisted code, payer guidelines may vary, and reimbursement is not guaranteed. Providers must include detailed supporting documentation that justifies why no more specific CPT code applies. This code is sometimes used in emerging or non-standard interventions, like dry needling or manual therapy techniques not otherwise classified.

Use of CPT code 97799 should be reserved for cases where no standard codes adequately reflect the rehabilitation services rendered. Always consult the American Medical Association or Medicare for up-to-date coding practices related to physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Documentation requirements

To report CPT code 97799, healthcare providers must submit thorough documentation that supports the use of this unlisted physical medicine code. Since it lacks a defined description, the following elements are essential:

• A detailed description of the service or intervention provided
• Clinical justification for medical necessity, including why it cannot be represented by a more specific CPT code
• Notes should explain the rationale for providing treatment outside standard CPT descriptions, including the use of therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, or other unique services.
• A comparison to standard codes to highlight the uniqueness of the procedure
• Provider qualifications (e.g., licensed physical therapist or occupational therapist)
• Measurable outcome goals and a clearly defined plan for follow-up
• A cover letter or supplemental report should be attached to assist the payer review and minimize billing mistakes

Billing guidelines

Billing for CPT code 97799, an unlisted physical medicine or rehabilitation service or procedure for a patient, requires special handling, as it does not have a predefined reimbursement rate or relative value unit (RVU):

• Submit a comparable CPT code along with a detailed cost rationale to help payers determine appropriate reimbursement.
• Payment is determined on a case-by-case basis, often requiring payer-specific review.
• Prior authorization is typically required, especially for commercial insurers and Medicare plans. Confirm this step with each payer.
• Do not report 97799 for minor variations in service or missing documentation; reserve it for services not represented by any other standard codes.
• The service must be medically necessary and evidence-based. Avoid using this code for experimental or investigational treatments lacking peer-reviewed support.
• Due to the high risk of claim denials and scrutiny from payer guidelines, providers must ensure accurate documentation and adherence to proper billing protocols when using CPT code 97799.

Other relevant CPT codes

• 97139 – Unlisted therapeutic procedure
• 97112–97140 – Common physical medicine procedures