© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 90802 refers to an interactive psychiatric diagnostic interview examination that utilizes various forms of communication, including play equipment, physical devices, language interpreters, or other mechanisms. This procedure is particularly designed for patients who may have not developed or have lost their ability to communicate verbally. In such cases, the provider engages in an interview process that may incorporate play therapy or alternative communication methods to facilitate understanding and interaction with the patient. The involvement of family members is also a critical component, as they may be interviewed to gather comprehensive medical and psychiatric histories that are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. During this examination, the provider conducts a thorough evaluation of the patient's mental status, which is crucial for determining the appropriate diagnosis and formulating a treatment plan. Additionally, this code is applicable when an interpreter is necessary for the interview, accommodating patients who are either deaf or do not speak English. It is imperative that the provider documents their findings, including the opinion and treatment plan, to ensure a complete record of the examination and to support subsequent care decisions.
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