CPB (Certified Professional Biller) Certification Practice Exam

Which type of codes in CPT are optional performance measurement tracking codes?

1. Category III Codes

2. Catastrophic Cap Benefit

3. Catchment Area

4. Case Management

The correct answer is: Category III Codes

Category III codes in the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding system are specifically designed to facilitate the tracking of emerging technologies, services, and procedures. These codes are not used for billing in the traditional sense but serve a purpose in performance measurement and data collection. They are optional, allowing healthcare providers to report services that are not yet widely accepted or generally performed but are part of the ongoing development and evaluation of new healthcare practices. This characteristic distinguishes Category III codes from other types of coding which serve different primary functions, such as assessing benefits or managing patient care. By allowing for the tracking of new medical practices, Category III codes play an essential role in the progression of healthcare measurement and quality improvement.