97161 Pt evaluation low complex 20 minutes
Also known as: PT eval low complex, Brief PT eval, Simple PT eval, physical therapy evaluation low, PT eval, physical therapy initial
Physical therapy evaluation of low complexity requiring 20 minutes. Includes history, examination, functional testing, and treatment planning for straightforward cases.
In Plain Language
Physical therapy initial evaluation - simple case
Clinical Context
Used for straightforward musculoskeletal conditions with limited medical history complexity. Establishes baseline for treatment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.54 |
| Total RVU | 1.54 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Medicine section codes cover a wide range of non-surgical services. Documentation should include the clinical indication, procedure details, interpretation (if applicable), and any patient-specific findings.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.54, this code ranks in the 71st percentile among Medicine codes — 2.0x the median (0.78). The highest wRVU in this category is 23.92.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 97161?
CPT 97161 (Pt evaluation low complex 20 minutes) is a Medicine code. Physical therapy evaluation of low complexity requiring 20 minutes. Includes history, examination, functional testing, and treatment planning for straightforward cases.
Who uses CPT code 97161?
CPT 97161 is used by Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation. Used for straightforward musculoskeletal conditions with limited medical history complexity. Establishes baseline for treatment.
When is CPT 97161 used?
Used for straightforward musculoskeletal conditions with limited medical history complexity. Establishes baseline for treatment.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.