US Medical Term · billing
CPT Code
Código CPT
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | CPT Code |
| Spanish (Español) | Código CPT |
| Chinese (中文) | CPT代码 |
| Korean (한국어) | CPT 코드 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Mã CPT |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | CPT Code |
| Portuguese (Português) | Código CPT |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | รหัส CPT |
| Japanese (日本語) | CPTコード |
What it means
A Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code is a standardized five-digit numeric code maintained by the American Medical Association that describes a specific medical service, diagnostic procedure, or surgical operation. Every service billed to an insurance company or government program must include at least one CPT code so the payer understands exactly what was done. For example, a routine office visit might use code 99213, while a knee arthroscopy would have a different code. Your Explanation of Benefits should list the CPT codes for all services billed. If you see an unfamiliar code on your bill, look it up on the AMA website or ask your provider's billing department what it represents—incorrect CPT codes are a common source of billing errors and claim denials.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My EOB showed a CPT code I didn't recognize, so I asked the billing office to explain it.
Mi EOB mostró un código CPT que no reconocí, así que le pedí al departamento de facturación que me lo explicara.
A wrong CPT code can cause your claim to be denied.
Un código CPT incorrecto puede hacer que su reclamo sea negado.
The surgeon's office billed the procedure under CPT code 27447 for a total knee replacement.
El consultorio del cirujano facturó el procedimiento bajo el código CPT 27447 para un reemplazo total de rodilla.
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026