Billing for Specialized & Aquatic Therapies

Hydrotherapy and Aquatic Therapy Billing

Aquatic therapy (CPT 97113) is a time-based code that requires one-on-one patient contact in an aquatic setting. It is not just "pool time"; you must be performing therapeutic exercises with the patient. Documentation should clearly justify why the aquatic environment was medically necessary (e.g., for non-weight bearing patients).

Coding for Mechanical Traction

Mechanical traction (CPT 97012) is a supervised modality, meaning it does not require one-on-one supervision. Because of this, it is often a target for bundling by payers. While it should be billed for, expect that it may be included in the payment for other services rendered on the same day. Manual traction, on the other hand, is considered a form of manual therapy and is billed under CPT 97140.

Massage Therapy Billing

Massage therapy (CPT 97124) is a time-based code that is distinct from manual therapy (97140). While both involve hands-on techniques, massage therapy typically refers to effleurage, petrissage, and tapotement. Clear documentation of the specific techniques used is vital to differentiate it from manual therapy and prevent denials for duplicative services.

Payer Policies Vary: Coverage for massage therapy is highly variable between payers. Always verify benefits before providing the service to avoid unexpected patient responsibility.

Key Strategies

Specialized Therapy Checklist

✓ Document medical necessity for aquatic therapy (97113).
✓ Bill manual traction under 97140, not the mechanical traction code.
✓ Verify patient benefits for massage therapy (97124) before treatment.
✓ Clearly differentiate massage from manual therapy in your notes.

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Billing for Specialized & Aquatic Therapies

Billing for Specialized & Aquatic Therapies

A coding and billing guide for specialized physical therapy services including hydrotherapy, mechanical traction, and manual massage therapy.

A coding and billing guide for specialized physical therapy services including hydrotherapy, mechanical traction, and manual massage therapy.

Preston M Voutsi

Article Published

Hydrotherapy and Aquatic Therapy Billing

Coding for Mechanical Traction

Massage Therapy Billing

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