CPT® Code 96102

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, MMPA and WAIS), with qualified health care professional interpretation and report, administered by technician, per hour of technician time, face-to-face

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 96102 refers to psychological testing that encompasses a comprehensive psychodiagnostic assessment of various psychological dimensions, including emotionality, intellectual abilities, personality traits, and psychopathology. This testing may utilize standardized instruments such as the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), Rorschach inkblot tests, and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). The procedure is characterized as a time-based service, specifically reported per hour of face-to-face interaction between the technician and the patient. During this encounter, the technician administers the selected psychological tests, ensuring that the process is conducted in a direct, personal manner. The code also includes the interpretation of the test results and the preparation of a detailed report by a qualified healthcare professional. After the testing is completed, the technician derives both raw and standardized scores from the administered tests, which are then analyzed to provide insights into the patient's psychological state. Any additional data obtained from computerized testing or technician-administered assessments is reviewed and integrated into the overall evaluation. A written report summarizing the findings is subsequently prepared, which is essential for further clinical decision-making. It is important to note that this code is specifically used when the psychological testing is conducted by a technician, with the results being returned to a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation and reporting. In contrast, CPT® Code 96103 is utilized when the testing is administered via computer, with the patient completing the assessment independently.

1. Indications

The CPT® Code 96102 is indicated for use in various scenarios where psychological testing is necessary to assess a patient's mental health status. The following conditions or symptoms may warrant the administration of this testing:

Emotional Disturbances - Patients exhibiting signs of anxiety, depression, or other emotional issues may require psychological testing to better understand their emotional state.
Intellectual Assessment - Individuals needing evaluation of cognitive abilities, including intelligence testing, may be assessed using standardized tests like the WAIS.
Personality Evaluation - Testing may be indicated for patients whose personality traits need to be assessed, particularly in the context of mental health treatment or diagnosis.
Psychopathology Assessment - Patients suspected of having psychological disorders may undergo testing to identify and diagnose conditions such as mood disorders, personality disorders, or other psychopathologies.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 96102 involves several key steps that ensure a thorough psychological assessment is conducted. The following outlines the procedural steps:

Step 1: Selection of Tests - The qualified healthcare professional selects appropriate psychological tests based on the patient's specific needs and presenting issues. This selection is crucial to ensure that the tests administered will yield relevant and useful data.
Step 2: Face-to-Face Administration - A trained technician administers the selected tests in a face-to-face setting with the patient. This direct interaction is essential for accurately guiding the patient through the testing process and ensuring that the tests are conducted in a controlled environment.
Step 3: Scoring and Analysis - After the tests are completed, the technician derives both raw and standardized scores from the responses. These scores are then analyzed to provide insights into the patient's psychological profile.
Step 4: Integration of Additional Data - Any supplementary data obtained from computerized assessments or other testing methods is reviewed and integrated into the overall evaluation. This comprehensive approach enhances the accuracy of the assessment.
Step 5: Report Preparation - Finally, the qualified healthcare professional prepares a detailed written report that summarizes the findings from the testing. This report includes interpretations of the scores and recommendations for further treatment or intervention if necessary.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the administration of psychological testing under CPT® Code 96102 typically involves a follow-up consultation with the qualified healthcare professional. During this follow-up, the professional reviews the findings from the testing report with the patient, discussing the implications of the results and any recommended next steps. This may include referrals for further psychological treatment, therapy, or additional assessments if needed. The patient may also receive guidance on coping strategies or interventions based on the assessment outcomes. It is essential for the healthcare provider to ensure that the patient understands the results and feels supported in their mental health journey.

Short Descr	PSYCHO TESTING BY TECHNICIAN
Medium Descr	PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING ADMN BY TECH PR HR
Long Descr	Psychological testing (includes psychodiagnostic assessment of emotionality, intellectual abilities, personality and psychopathology, eg, MMPA and WAIS), with qualified health care professional interpretation and report, administered by technician, per hour of technician time, face-to-face
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