CPT 99291: Critical Care - First 30-74 minutes
Documentation Requirements
- Critical illness/injury with high probability of life-threatening deterioration
- High complexity medical decision making
- Total critical care time (excluding separately billable procedures)
- Direct patient care activities performed
Billing Tips
- Time-based: 30-74 minutes = 99291
- Additional 30-minute increments = 99292
- Document total critical care time
- Cannot bill separately for most bundled services
Frequently Asked Questions
What time counts toward critical care?
Time spent at bedside or immediately available, reviewing data, documenting, discussing care with family (for decision-making), coordinating care. Does not include time for separately billable procedures.