Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot
Code deleted, see 90460, 90461, 90471, 90472, 90473, 90474.

Official Description

Immunization administration younger than 8 years of age (includes percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections) when the physician counsels the patient/family; first injection (single or combination vaccine/toxoid), per day

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 90465 refers to the administration of immunizations for patients who are younger than 8 years of age. This code encompasses various methods of vaccine delivery, including percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections. The procedure specifically applies when a physician provides counseling to the patient or their family during the administration of the vaccine. It is important to note that this code is applicable for the first injection given in a single day, which can either be a single vaccine or a combination vaccine/toxoid. For any additional injections administered on the same day, the appropriate code to use is 90466. This structured approach ensures that healthcare providers can accurately document and bill for the immunization services provided to young patients, while also emphasizing the importance of physician-patient communication during the vaccination process.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The CPT® Code 90465 is indicated for the administration of immunizations to patients who are younger than 8 years of age. The specific circumstances under which this code is applicable include:

  • Immunization Administration This code is used when a vaccine or toxoid is administered to a child under 8 years old.
  • Physician Counseling The procedure must include counseling provided by the physician to the patient or their family regarding the vaccine being administered.

2. Procedure

The procedure for administering immunizations under CPT® Code 90465 involves several key steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Patient Assessment The healthcare provider begins by assessing the patient’s medical history and current health status to ensure that the immunization is appropriate. This includes reviewing any previous vaccinations and identifying any contraindications or allergies.
  • Step 2: Counseling The physician provides counseling to the patient and/or their family. This counseling includes information about the vaccine, its benefits, potential side effects, and the importance of immunization in preventing disease. This step is crucial for informed consent and ensuring that the family understands the procedure.
  • Step 3: Vaccine Preparation The healthcare provider prepares the vaccine for administration. This may involve checking the vaccine’s expiration date, ensuring proper storage conditions, and drawing the vaccine into a syringe while maintaining aseptic technique.
  • Step 4: Administration of the Vaccine The vaccine is then administered using one of the accepted methods: percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular injection. The choice of method depends on the specific vaccine being given and the age of the patient.
  • Step 5: Post-Administration Care After the vaccine is administered, the healthcare provider monitors the patient for any immediate adverse reactions. The patient or family is also provided with information on what to expect post-vaccination and when to seek further medical attention if necessary.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the administration of the immunization under CPT® Code 90465, the patient may experience mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or irritability. These effects are typically short-lived and resolve without intervention. The healthcare provider should advise the patient or family on appropriate post-procedure care, including the use of over-the-counter medications for pain or fever if necessary. Additionally, it is important to schedule any follow-up vaccinations as recommended in the immunization schedule. Documentation of the vaccine administered, including the date, type of vaccine, and any counseling provided, should be recorded in the patient’s medical record for future reference and compliance purposes.

Short Descr IMMUNE ADMIN 1 INJ, < 8 YRS
Medium Descr IMADM <8YR PHYS CNSL1ST NJX PR D
Long Descr IMADM <8YR PHYS CNSL1ST NJX PR D
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Code Not Recognized by OPPS when submitted on Outpatient Hospital Part B Bill Type (12x/13x)
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 228 - Prophylactic vaccinations and inoculations
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 90460, 90461, 90471, 90472, 90473, 90474.
2007-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2005-01-01 Added Code added.
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"