Which CPT code is used for a new patient evaluation?

Which CPT code is used for a new patient evaluation?

• A. 99201
• B. 99212
• C. 99202
• D. 98940

Answer: (C)

New patient evaluations use Evaluation and Management codes that reflect the level of history, examination, and medical decision making documented. For a new patient, the next level up from the most basic visit is 99202, which covers a new patient evaluation with expanded history and examination and a corresponding level of medical decision making. This makes 99202 the best fit when the visit requires more detailed assessment than the lowest level. Explain briefly why the others don’t fit: 98940 is a chiropractic manipulation code, not an evaluation. 99212 is for an established patient visit, not a new patient. 99201 is the lowest level for a new patient, but the scenario of a new patient evaluation often warrants the higher level 99202 due to greater documentation requirements.

New patient evaluations use Evaluation and Management codes that reflect the level of history, examination, and medical decision making documented. For a new patient, the next level up from the most basic visit is 99202, which covers a new patient evaluation with expanded history and examination and a corresponding level of medical decision making. This makes 99202 the best fit when the visit requires more detailed assessment than the lowest level.

Explain briefly why the others don’t fit: 98940 is a chiropractic manipulation code, not an evaluation. 99212 is for an established patient visit, not a new patient. 99201 is the lowest level for a new patient, but the scenario of a new patient evaluation often warrants the higher level 99202 due to greater documentation requirements.