What type of services do CPT codes that begin with "1" typically represent?

CPT codes that begin with "1" represent Evaluation and Management (E/M) services. These codes are specifically designated for a variety of patient encounters, including consultations, office visits, and other face-to-face interactions between healthcare providers and patients where the focus is on assessing and managing the patient's health. These services often involve taking a patient history, conducting physical examinations, and making decisions about the treatment plan.

Understanding the structure of CPT codes is essential for accurate coding; codes are organized into categories, each serving a different purpose within medical practice. The range starting with "1" has been established predominantly for the evaluation and management of patient care, which is crucial for determining the appropriate level of service and subsequent billing.

Radiological services, physical therapy services, and surgical procedures fall under different ranges of CPT codes, which is why they do not begin with the number "1". This categorization helps in organizing the extensive array of medical services into specific groups, making it easier for providers and coders to navigate and apply the appropriate codes.