How often is the CPT code set updated?

The CPT code set is updated annually to reflect changes in medical practices, emerging technologies, and the needs of healthcare professionals and patients. This annual update ensures that the code set remains relevant and useful for accurate billing, reporting, and data collection.

Typically, the American Medical Association (AMA) publishes a new edition of the CPT codebook each year. With this annual update, new codes may be added, existing codes may be revised for clarity or specificity, and codes that are no longer in use may be deleted.

The other options do not align with the established timeline for updates. Updates occurring every quarter, bi-annually, or every two years would not adequately address the rapidly changing landscape of healthcare and the need for timely coding practices. Therefore, the annual update is essential for maintaining accurate communication within the healthcare system.