CPT Code
Also called: Current Procedural Terminology, Procedure Code
In plain English
A five-digit code that identifies a specific medical service or procedure. Maintained by the American Medical Association, CPT codes are used on every medical bill and insurance claim to describe exactly what was done.
Real-world example
CPT 99213 is a standard office visit. CPT 71046 is a two-view chest X-ray. CPT 45378 is a colonoscopy. Each code has a specific definition and a corresponding Medicare reimbursement rate that serves as a national benchmark.
Why this matters for your bill
CPT codes are the language of medical billing. If you can look up what a code means and what Medicare pays for it, you can spot overcharges, upcoding (being billed for a more expensive service than you received), and duplicate charges.
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