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Code deleted, see 96130, 96131, 96136, 96137, 96138, 96139, 96146

Official Description

Psychological testing (includes psychodiagnostic assessment of emotionality, intellectual abilities, personality and psychopathology, eg, MMPI, Rorschach, WAIS), per hour of the psychologist's or physician's time, both face-to-face time administering tests to the patient and time interpreting these test results and preparing the report

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 96101 refers to psychological testing, which encompasses a comprehensive psychodiagnostic assessment aimed at evaluating various psychological aspects such as emotionality, intellectual abilities, personality traits, and psychopathology. This testing may utilize standardized instruments, including but not limited to the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), Rorschach inkblot tests, and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). The code is specifically designed to capture the time-based nature of the testing service, indicating that it is billed per hour of the psychologist's or physician's time. This includes both the direct, face-to-face interaction with the patient during the administration of the tests and the subsequent time spent interpreting the results and preparing a detailed report. The process involves selecting the appropriate tests to be administered in a face-to-face setting, conducting the tests, deriving and analyzing raw and standardized scores, reviewing additional data from computer or technician testing, and ultimately compiling a written report that summarizes the findings and interpretations of the tests conducted.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The CPT® Code 96101 is indicated for use in various scenarios where a psychological evaluation is necessary. These indications may include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Assessment of Emotionality This involves evaluating a patient's emotional responses and stability, which can be crucial for diagnosing mood disorders or emotional disturbances.
  • Intellectual Abilities Testing may be required to assess cognitive functioning and intelligence, which can aid in identifying learning disabilities or cognitive impairments.
  • Personality Evaluation The procedure can be used to understand personality traits and characteristics, which is essential in diagnosing personality disorders.
  • Psychopathology Assessment This includes evaluating for various mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, depression, and other psychological issues that may affect a patient's well-being.

2. Procedure

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 96101 involves several key steps that ensure a thorough psychological evaluation. Each step is critical to the overall assessment process:

  • Step 1: Selection of Tests The qualified psychologist or physician begins by selecting the appropriate standardized tests based on the specific needs of the patient. This selection is guided by the presenting issues and the goals of the assessment.
  • Step 2: Administration of Tests The selected tests are administered in a face-to-face encounter with the patient. This step is crucial as it allows the professional to observe the patient's responses and behaviors during the testing process.
  • Step 3: Scoring and Analysis After the tests are administered, the psychologist derives both raw and standardized scores. This scoring process is essential for interpreting the results accurately and understanding the patient's psychological profile.
  • Step 4: Review of Additional Data Any supplementary test data obtained from computer or technician testing is reviewed and integrated into the overall assessment. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of the patient's psychological state.
  • Step 5: Report Preparation Finally, a detailed written report is prepared, summarizing the findings from the testing. This report includes interpretations of the results and recommendations for further action or treatment, if necessary.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the administration of psychological testing under CPT® Code 96101 typically involves a follow-up consultation where the results are discussed with the patient. During this session, the psychologist or physician reviews the findings from the tests, explains the implications of the results, and may provide recommendations for treatment or further evaluation if needed. It is also an opportunity for the patient to ask questions and clarify any concerns regarding the assessment. The recovery from the testing itself is generally immediate, as it is a non-invasive procedure; however, the psychological impact of the findings may require ongoing support or intervention.

Short Descr PSYCHO TESTING BY PSYCH/PHYS
Medium Descr PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING PR HR WITH PATIENT
Long Descr Psychological testing (includes psychodiagnostic assessment of emotionality, intellectual abilities, personality and psychopathology, eg, MMPI, Rorschach, WAIS), per hour of the psychologist's or physician's time, both face-to-face time administering tests to the patient and time interpreting these test results and preparing the report
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 04 - Physician supervision policy does not apply when procedure is furnished by a qualified, independent psychologist...
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 Codes That May Be Paid Through a Composite APC
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T2D - Other tests - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 218 - Psychological and psychiatric evaluation and therapy
Date
Action
Notes
2019-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 96130, 96131, 96136, 96137, 96138, 96139, 96146
2008-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2007-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2006-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2006.
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