Hey there! If you are part of the medical billing or coding world, you already know how quickly things can change, especially when it comes to CPT codes. And guess what?
The CPT code changes for 2026 are here, with important updates that could impact your claims, reimbursements, and overall billing workflow.
At BillVolt, your trusted medical billing company in the USA, we understand that staying on top of these updates can be overwhelming. That’s why we have pulled the latest info directly from the American Medical Association (AMA), which owns the CPT code set, and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), the premier coding authority.
Our goal is to give you a clear, detailed breakdown of the 2026 CPT code updates, what they mean, and how to prepare your practice for a smooth transition.
What Are CPT Codes and Why Are They So Important?
CPT codes or Current Procedural Terminology codes, are the backbone of medical billing in the U.S. Developed and maintained by the AMA, these five-digit codes standardize the description of medical, surgical, and diagnostic services. When you submit a claim, CPT codes tell insurance companies exactly what care was provided.
Accurate coding is critical. According to the AMA, errors in CPT coding lead to delayed payments, increased claim denials, and can even trigger audits. With the medical coding updates for 2026, new codes and revisions reflect advancements in healthcare delivery and policy changes, so keeping your billing accurate and up-to-date is essential.
For more details, check out the AMA’s official CPT overview: AMA CPT® Overview
The Biggest CPT Code Changes for 2026: What You Need to Know
Let’s break down the most impactful CPT code changes coming in 2026, info compiled from AMA’s official 2026 CPT code release and AAPC’s expert analysis:
- New Telehealth CPT Codes
Telehealth exploded during the pandemic and continues to be a vital part of healthcare. The AMA has introduced new telehealth CPT codes for 2026 that better capture a wider range of virtual services; from remote patient monitoring to virtual check-ins. As the AAPC highlights, these new codes help providers get reimbursed appropriately for the care they deliver outside the traditional office setting.
Learn more about telehealth coding updates here: AAPC Telehealth CPT Code Updates Practices offering telehealth services need to update billing systems and train coders to use these new codes correctly to avoid claim denials or underpayments.
- Revisions to Evaluation and Management (E/M) Codes
Building on the reforms that began in 2021, the AMA has refined E/M codes further for 2026, aiming to simplify documentation requirements and reduce the administrative burden on providers. These updates clarify what counts toward medical decision-making and time, key elements that coders must understand.
More on E/M code revisions from AMA: AMA E/M Code Updates
Medical billers should review updated AMA guidance and ensure providers document visits accordingly; incorrect use of E/M codes is one of the leading causes of claim denials.
- Expanded Behavioral Health Coding
Behavioral health is getting more attention, and the CPT code set reflects that. The 2026 update introduces new codes for integrated behavioral health services, including virtual behavioral health check-ins and care management. According to AAPC, this expansion helps address the increasing demand for mental health support while providing clear billing pathways.
Read more on behavioral health coding from AAPC: AAPC Behavioral Health CPT Updates. If your practice offers behavioral health services, make sure your billing team is trained on these new codes to capture all eligible services and improve reimbursement rates.
- Updates to Radiology and Imaging Codes
Several radiology CPT codes have been updated to better define imaging techniques and protocols. AMA notes these refinements improve coding accuracy and reduce claim denials related to ambiguous or outdated codes.
AMA Radiology CPT resources: AMA Radiology CPT Coding
Accurate radiology coding is essential because imaging is often a high-cost, high-volume service. Coding errors here can cause significant payment delays.
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Preparing Your Billing Software and Team for 2026 CPT Code Changes
Getting ahead on updates means smoother billing. Here’s how to prepare:
- Educate Your Team Early: Both AMA and AAPC offer training resources, webinars, and coding guides. Getting your coders and billers up to speed before January 1st is crucial. Check out AAPC’s 2026 CPT training: AAPC CPT Training
- Update Your Billing Software: Confirm with your software vendors that the 2026 CPT code updates are fully integrated. Billing software updates ensure your system recognizes and processes new codes correctly.
- Monitor and Analyze Denials: Post-implementation, closely track claim denials to catch any coding or documentation issues related to the updates.
- Improve Provider Documentation: The AMA stresses that detailed, accurate documentation is the foundation for correct CPT coding. Encourage providers to be thorough, especially with new or revised codes.
Why BillVolt Is Your Best Partner for Navigating CPT Code Changes
The healthcare billing landscape is complicated, and the CPT code changes 2026 add another layer of complexity. At BillVolt, we specialize in making this easier for practices across the U.S.
Our billing experts stay up-to-date with the latest AMA releases and AAPC coding recommendations so you don’t have to. We handle code updates, training, claim submission, and denials management; all tailored to maximize your revenue cycle efficiency and minimize stress.
The 2026 CPT code changes reflect ongoing advances in healthcare delivery and an effort to simplify billing processes, but only if you are ready. By staying informed, training your team, updating your systems, and partnering with experts like BillVolt, you will be in great shape for a smooth, successful year.
Have questions about the 2026 CPT code updates or want to ensure your billing is optimized? Contact BillVolt today, we are here to help!
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