Introduction

This reference is a practical guide for rheumatologists and their staff to communicate more effectively with third-party payors regarding the medical services provided to patients. The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) has developed this reference guide for rheumatologists as an adjunct to the American Medical Association's (AMA) CPT manual. It provides an overview of the codes most applicable to rheumatologic practices as well as their effective and appropriate use. It should not be regarded as a substitute for an understanding of the entire CPT coding system. Rather, it is meant to increase understanding of the system and to enhance its usefulness to rheumatologists and their staffs. The revisions of the CPT codes published in this reference guide have been adopted by Medicare and by most private insurance carriers.

It is extremely important that the communication about this information be both precise and timely in light of CPT coding changes which take place each year. It is important to remain abreast of these changes to ensure accurate coding and appropriate reimbursement.

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