CPT codes announced for two COVID-19 vaccine candidates

The American Medical Association yesterday announced Current Procedural Terminology codes for reporting on medical claims two COVID-19 vaccines and their administration to patients by dose. The codes are for a Pfizer vaccine candidate and a Moderna vaccine candidate, and effective for use once the respective vaccines receive emergency use authorization or approval from the Food and Drug Administration. They were announced in advance to facilitate updating of U.S. health care electronic systems.

“This level of specificity is a first for vaccine CPT codes, but offers the ability to track each vaccine dose, even when the vaccine product is not reported (e.g. when the vaccine may be given to the patient for free),” AMA said. “These CPT codes report the actual work of administering the vaccine, in addition to all necessary counseling provided to patients or caregivers and updating the electronic record.”