What does the CPT coding system refer to?

The CPT coding system, which stands for Current Procedural Terminology, is specifically designed to provide a standardized set of codes that represent medical, surgical, and diagnostic procedures. These codes are used by healthcare providers for billing and documenting the services rendered to patients. The use of CPT codes enables clear communication among physicians, patients, and insurance companies, ensuring that the specifics of the procedures performed are accurately captured and reimbursed.

This coding system is crucial for healthcare professionals as it allows them to categorize a wide range of medical services consistently. For instance, when a physician performs a surgical procedure or administers a diagnostic test, they will use a CPT code that precisely describes what was done. This focus on classifying procedures distinguishes CPT codes from other coding types, such as those that pertain to illnesses and injuries, which may be found in different coding systems, such as ICD codes.