CPT® Code 97811

Add-On Code

Acupuncture, 1 or more needles; without electrical stimulation, each additional 15 minutes of personal one-on-one contact with the patient, with insertion of needle(s) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique primarily utilized for pain relief. This method involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific acupuncture points on the body. The practice is based on the belief that stimulating these points can open the flow of chi, or vital energy, through the meridian pathways, thereby correcting imbalances in energy flow within the body. Acupuncture can be performed with or without the use of electrical stimulation. When performed without electrical stimulation, the practitioner focuses solely on the manual insertion of needles. This technique may also be complemented by other traditional practices such as moxibustion and cupping therapy. Moxibustion involves the burning of moxa, a dried herb, on or near the skin to promote healing, while cupping creates localized suction to enhance blood flow and facilitate recovery. For billing purposes, the CPT® code 97811 specifically refers to the additional time spent on acupuncture treatment without electrical stimulation, billed in increments of 15 minutes, following the initial 15 minutes coded under 97810. This structured approach allows for accurate documentation and reimbursement for the services provided during acupuncture sessions.