Summary & Overview
CPT 98976: Remote Therapeutic Monitoring Device Supply for Respiratory System
CPT code 98976 identifies the supply of one or more devices used for remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) of the respiratory system when monitoring occurs for 16 to 30 days in a 30‑day period. As remote care and digital therapeutics expand, this code captures device-based RTM services that enable clinicians to monitor respiratory function and adherence outside traditional care settings. Nationally, adoption of RTM codes affects care pathways for chronic respiratory conditions, telehealth integration, and device reimbursement practices.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise briefing on what 98976 represents, typical service and site-of-service contexts, and where this code fits among RTM billing constructs. The publication outlines benchmarks and coverage trends, policy updates affecting RTM device supply, and clinical context that clarifies when a device-supply RTM code applies. It also points to related service codes and common operational considerations for clinicians and billing teams.
This overview is written for a national audience and focuses on the code's purpose, the payer landscape, and the practical implications for remote respiratory monitoring services.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 98976 describes the supply of one or more devices for remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) of the respiratory system where monitoring occurs for 16 to 30 days within a 30‑day period. This service involves the provision of devices that collect respiratory physiologic data remotely to support therapeutic management.
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Service type: Remote therapeutic monitoring device supply for respiratory system monitoring
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Typical site of service: Remote/home-based monitoring; device is supplied to the patient for use outside of a clinical setting
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Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is a 62-year-old with moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who has been prescribed a remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) device to track respiratory parameters after a recent exacerbation and medication adjustment. The clinician provides one or more devices that measure metrics such as respiratory rate, tidal volume proxy, or inhaler usage, and configures them for home use. The initial visit includes device selection, patient education on setup and use, and documentation of the monitoring plan in the medical record. Over a 30‑day period the device transmits physiologic data; the monitoring period for 98976 specifically covers monitoring that occurs for 16 to 30 days within that 30‑day period. Clinical workflow steps include: device provision and setup visit, baseline instruction and consent, periodic remote review of transmitted respiratory data by the treating clinician or qualified clinical staff, and documentation of any treatment changes prompted by the RTM data. Typical site of service is an outpatient clinic, durable medical equipment supplier visit, or remote home setting where the patient uses the device; the billing originates from the supervising practice location.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
00 | No modifier | Standard reporting when no other modifier applies |