CPT 90870 reports electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), including necessary monitoring, for a single seizure. It is a physician-performed procedure typically used for severe or treatment-resistant depression.
When to use 90870
Use 90870 for a single-seizure ECT treatment. For multiple seizures in a single day, use 90871. ECT is limited to physicians (MD/DO).
How to bill it
Report per treatment session. Confirm facility and payer requirements, as ECT involves anesthesia and monitoring support.
Common pitfalls
- Billing 90870 for multiple seizures in one day instead of 90871.
- Assuming non-physician providers can bill ECT.
Frequently asked questions
Who can perform and bill ECT?
ECT (90870/90871) is limited to physicians (MD/DO) and includes required monitoring.
What is the difference between 90870 and 90871?
90870 is a single seizure per day; 90871 is multiple seizures during a single treatment day.