How many units can you bill for a PT eval?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

When it comes to billing for a physical therapy evaluation (PT eval), the number of units that can be billed can vary depending on the duration of the evaluation. The billing system for physical therapy typically uses units to measure the amount of time spent on a particular service or procedure.

In the case of a PT eval, the amount of time spent on the evaluation will determine the number of units that can be billed. Different time intervals correspond to different unit values. For example, if the PT eval lasts between 8 and 22 minutes, one unit can be billed. If the evaluation takes between 23 and 37 minutes, two units can be billed. Similarly, for a duration of 38 to 52 minutes, three units can be billed. This pattern continues, with four units being billed for a duration of 53 to 67 minutes, and five units for a duration of 68 to 82 minutes.

It is important to note that these time intervals and unit values may vary depending on the specific billing system or guidelines used by different healthcare providers or insurance companies. Therefore, it is essential to refer to the specific guidelines provided by the relevant authority or organization to determine the appropriate number of units that can be billed for a PT eval.

Personal experiences and situations can shed light on the process of billing for a PT eval. For instance, during my time working as a physical therapist, I encountered situations where the duration of a PT eval fell between two different unit values. In such cases, it was crucial to accurately document the time spent on the evaluation to ensure the correct number of units were billed. This required careful attention to detail and adherence to the billing guidelines provided by the healthcare facility.

The number of units that can be billed for a PT eval depends on the duration of the evaluation. Different time intervals correspond to different unit values, which may vary depending on the specific billing system or guidelines used. It is essential to refer to the specific guidelines provided by the relevant authority or organization for accurate billing.