Wiki Spanish Interpreting services

[CCMB]

Looking for the current CPT code and billing requirements for a Spanish language interpreter for E&M services

 

[jkyles]

Hi there, the only interpretation code I know about is T1013. You'll need to determine whether a specific payer covers it. Medicare does not.

During the CPT/RBRVS Symposium last week an AMA official (Dr. Peter Hollmann) noted that one option might be to code the visit based on time when the patient needs an interpreter's services.

 

[ckeeney]

I have never seen a code for interpreter services. Providing them is required under Title VI of the Civil Rights act. If someone has guidance otherwise it would be interesting to hear. I know this question has come up several times in the Forum, you might want to search for older posts on this.

Title VI link: https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/fo...eral-financial-assistance-title-vi/index.html

 

[CBLENNIE]

Hi there, the only interpretation code I know about is T1013. You'll need to determine whether a specific payer covers it. Medicare does not.

T1013 is almost always only covered by Medicaid plans, depending on each state's coverage guidelines for interpreter services. I have worked in the commercial insurance industry for 20+ years and I don't know of any commercial plan that I have ever seen has covered this service.