CPT codes 97802, 97803, and 97804 are used to describe medical nutrition therapy (MNT) services provided to patients. MNT involves the use of specialized nutrition services to manage medical conditions and improve health outcomes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these codes and discuss how they are used in medical billing.
CPT Code 97802
CPT code 97802 is used to describe the initial assessment and intervention of an individual patient by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, for MNT services. This code is typically used for the first visit when the healthcare professional is assessing the patient’s nutritional status, reviewing medical and dietary history, identifying the patient’s nutritional goals, and developing a nutrition care plan.
When using CPT code 97802, it’s important to document the following:
- Assessment of the patient’s nutritional status, including any relevant laboratory tests and medical history
- Review of the patient’s dietary history, including food preferences, eating habits, and cultural or religious dietary practices
- Identification of the patient’s nutritional goals
- Development of a nutrition care plan, including the number of MNT visits required, as well as any interventions or recommendations
CPT Code 97803
CPT code 97803 is used to describe the re-assessment and intervention of an individual patient by a qualified healthcare professional for MNT services. This code is used for subsequent visits, typically after the initial assessment and intervention described by CPT code 97802. During these visits, the healthcare professional will evaluate the patient’s progress toward their nutritional goals, adjust the nutrition care plan as needed, and provide ongoing education and support.
When using CPT code 97803, it’s important to document the following:
- Review of the patient’s progress toward their nutritional goals
- Evaluation of any changes in the patient’s medical history or medication regimen that may impact their nutritional needs
- Adjustments to the nutrition care plan, including any interventions or recommendations
- Ongoing education and support provided to the patient
CPT Code 97804
CPT code 97804 is used to describe the group MNT services provided to two or more individuals with similar medical conditions. This code is typically used in a group setting, such as a class or workshop, and is designed to provide education and support to individuals with similar nutritional needs.
When using CPT code 97804, it’s important to document the following:
- The number of patients participating in the group session
- The duration of the session
- A description of the educational content covered, including any handouts or materials provided to the patients
- The outcomes of the group session, including any changes in patient behavior or understanding of their nutritional needs
Coding Tips
When coding for MNT services using CPT codes 97802, 97803, and 97804, it’s important to remember the following tips:
- Use the appropriate code for the service provided: CPT code 97802 is used for the initial assessment and intervention, while CPT code 97803 is used for subsequent re-assessment and intervention visits. CPT code 97804 is used for group MNT services.
- Document the assessment, plan, and progress: When using CPT codes 97802 and 97803, it’s important to document the patient’s nutritional status, dietary history, nutritional goals, and the nutrition care plan. For CPT code 97804, it’s important to document the educational content covered and the outcomes of the group session.
- Use the appropriate diagnosis code: In order to bill for MNT services, there must be a medical necessity for the service. This means that a diagnosis code must be included on the claim form