CPT 90792 is the psychiatric diagnostic evaluation that includes medical services. It is used by psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and other prescribing providers who perform a medical history and medical decision-making as part of the workup.
When to use 90792
Use 90792 when the evaluator is a prescriber performing medical assessment in addition to the psychiatric interview and mental status exam. Non-prescribing clinicians use 90791. The medical component is what distinguishes the two diagnostic codes.
How to bill it
Report a single unit, typically 30–90 minutes. Because it already includes medical services, do not also bill a separate E/M code for the same encounter.
Common pitfalls
- Billing 90792 for a visit that is primarily medication management rather than a diagnostic evaluation.
- Pairing it with a separate E/M code on the same date, which is not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between 90791 and 90792?
90791 is a diagnostic evaluation without medical services and is used by non-prescribers. 90792 adds medical services such as medical history and decision-making and is used by prescribers such as psychiatrists.
Can psychotherapy be billed with 90792?
Not on the same date unless a separate, distinct psychotherapy service is delivered and clearly documented. In most cases the initial evaluation stands alone.