CPT code 78350 represents single-energy photon bone densitometry, a diagnostic imaging procedure that measures bone mineral density to evaluate conditions such as osteoporosis. Nationally, bone density testing informs screening, diagnosis, and management of metabolic bone disease and contributes to population-level fracture risk assessment and preventive care strategies. This code includes both the technical and professional components of the service.

Key payers in the coverage landscape include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical purpose and typical service settings, payer coverage context, and the elements that affect billing of this combined professional/technical procedure. The publication covers reimbursement benchmarks and common billing considerations tied to service setting and code components, highlights relevant policy updates affecting coverage and documentation, and explains where CPT code 78350 fits among bone densitometry services clinically and administratively.

This summary is intended for national audiences including coders, billing managers, clinical leaders, and policy analysts seeking a focused briefing on the code’s clinical role, billing scope, and payer coverage context.