There are NO CPT codes for Cupping, either manual or static, Gua Sha, or Moxibustion. When providing this service, the only choice is to use an “Unlisted Code” or a replacement code for the service. Surprisingly enough there are a number of them to choose from, and following you will learn which is the best replacement code for each type of therapy. First, you must recognize the difference between a modality and a procedure:
A modality is any physical agent applied to produce therapeutic changes.
A procedure is the use of clinical skills/services to improve function to an affected area.
Commonly Used Codes For Cupping
97039 is used to report procedures in which the provider uses a physical therapy modality that does not have a specific code.
97139 is used to report and unlisted therapeutic procedure (specify).
97799 is used to report an unlisted medicine/rehabilitation service or procedure.
Furthermore, the AMA’s 1999 CPT Assistant, states “when reporting an unlisted code to describe a procedure or service, it will be necessary to submit supporting documentation n along with the claim to provide an adequate description of the nature of the [procedure or service].”
With this in mind 97039 is the best code representing cupping, gua sha, or moxibustion because each require a physical agent, the cups, the tool, or the moxa. In addition. on the claim form in box 24 D or on the superbill the description should be provided. These codes can be considered timed based if you provide constant attendance, so the description and the amount of time spent face to face should be documented for sliding cups, gua sha or moxibustion. Static cups can only be billed for 1 unit as attendance is not necessary.
Manual Therapy code 97140
The AMA CPT committee has also commented on using code 97140 for these services and stated that since a device is being used, the manual therapy code CANNOT be used to represent these services. Since Tui-na is a hands-on procedure, it IS appropriate to use this code to provide Tui Na therapy.