Summary & Overview
CPT 71045: Chest X-ray, Single View
CPT code 71045 is a nationally recognized billing code for a single-view chest radiologic examination, a fundamental diagnostic imaging procedure used to assess a wide range of chest conditions. This code is integral to clinical workflows in outpatient hospital and office settings, serving as a first-line imaging tool for symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and suspected pneumonia. The publication covers key payers including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, Medicare, and UnitedHealthcare, providing a comprehensive overview of payer coverage and policy considerations.
Readers will gain insight into the clinical context of 71045, including its role in diagnostic radiology, typical sites of service, and its relationship to other chest and abdominal imaging codes. The summary also highlights relevant modifiers and associated taxonomies, offering clarity on billing components and professional versus technical services. Benchmarks and policy updates are discussed to inform stakeholders about current trends and requirements for this essential radiology service. The publication is designed to support healthcare professionals, administrators, and policy analysts in understanding the national landscape for chest radiologic examinations and their reimbursement.
CPT Code Overview
CPT code 71045 represents a radiologic examination of the chest with a single view. This procedure is commonly performed as part of diagnostic imaging to evaluate conditions affecting the lungs, heart, and chest wall. The service type is Radiology / Diagnostic Imaging, and it is typically provided in an outpatient hospital or office setting (such as Place of Service 11). This code is widely used in clinical practice for initial assessment and follow-up of various chest-related symptoms and conditions.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A patient presents to an outpatient hospital or office setting with symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or suspected pneumonia. The clinician orders a radiologic examination of the chest, single view (71045), to evaluate for possible lung pathology, heart size, or other abnormalities. The workflow typically involves the radiology technologist performing the chest X-ray, followed by a radiologist interpreting the image and providing a report to the referring provider.
Coding Specifications
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Modifiers:
- Modifier
26: Used to indicate the professional component, which covers the interpretation and report by the radiologist. - Modifier
TC: Used to indicate the technical component, which covers the use of equipment and performance of the X-ray by the technologist.
- Modifier
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Provider Taxonomies:
| Taxonomy Code | Specialty Name |
|---|---|
2085R0200X |