Which type of code is used to describe the kind of service that was provided in healthcare billing?

CPT, or Current Procedural Terminology codes, are used specifically to describe the types of services and procedures that healthcare professionals provide. These codes help convey the specifics of medical, surgical, and diagnostic services to payers for billing and reimbursement purposes. Each CPT code corresponds to a particular service, making it essential for accurately capturing the details of care rendered to patients.

In contrast, ICD (International Classification of Diseases) codes are used to identify diagnoses and health conditions but do not specify the procedures performed. RVU (Relative Value Units) are metrics that help determine the value of services in relation to their complexity and cost but do not function as descriptive codes for services. HITECH pertains to health information technology and regulation but is not directly related to billing services. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for students preparing for medication therapy management and effective communication in healthcare billing.