Complete Guide to CPT Code 97152

CPT Code 97152 is an important component of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. It focuses on clinical supervision through observation and direction to ensure that direct ABA treatment is delivered accurately and effectively. This code is commonly used by ABA providers and medical coders to support treatment quality and compliance.

This blog explains what CPT Code 97152 is, when to use it, who can bill it, and key documentation requirements.

What Is CPT Code 97152?

CPT Code 97152 is used for adaptive behavior treatment with observation and direction of a technician. It applies when a qualified healthcare professional, such as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), observes a behavior technician providing direct treatment and offers real-time clinical guidance.

The purpose of this code is to maintain treatment fidelity and ensure behavior plans are implemented correctly.

Official Description of CPT Code 97152

CPT 97152 describes:

Adaptive behavior treatment with observation and direction of technician, administered by a physician or other qualified health care professional, face-to-face with the patient, each 15 minutes.

When to Use CPT Code 97152

CPT 97152 should be billed when:

• A qualified healthcare professional is directly observing a technician
• The technician is delivering face-to-face ABA treatment
• The supervisor provides real-time instruction or feedback
• The patient is present during the session

This code is not appropriate for indirect supervision, chart reviews, or caregiver-only sessions.

Time and Billing Rules

• CPT 97152 is time-based
• It is billed in 15-minute increments
• Time must be clearly documented

For example:

• 30 minutes = 2 units
• 45 minutes = 3 units

Overlapping time with other ABA CPT codes is not allowed.

Who Can Bill CPT Code 97152?

CPT 97152 must be billed by a qualified healthcare professional, such as:

• Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs)
• Licensed behavioral health providers (based on payer rules)

Behavior technicians cannot bill this code independently.

Patient Presence Requirement

The patient must be present during CPT 97152 services. This is a key requirement and one of the most common reasons claims are denied when billed incorrectly.

CPT 97152 vs Other ABA CPT Codes

Key Difference:
CPT 97152 focuses on supervision during live treatment, not direct therapy or caregiver education.

Documentation Requirements

Accurate documentation is essential for CPT 97152 billing. Records should include:

• Date and duration of the session
• Names and credentials of the supervisor and technician
• Description of observed treatment
• Clinical guidance or feedback provided
• Confirmation of patient presence
• Patient response or progress

Common Billing Errors to Avoid

• Billing 97152 without patient presence
• Using 97152 for indirect supervision
• Overlapping billing with CPT 97153
• Missing documentation of clinical direction
• Billing technician-only services under 97152

Why CPT Code 97152 Matters

CPT Code 97152 supports high-quality ABA care by ensuring technicians receive proper clinical oversight. It helps maintain consistency in treatment delivery, improves patient outcomes, and meets payer requirements for supervision.

Final Thoughts

CPT Code 97152 is a critical supervision code within ABA services. When used correctly, it strengthens treatment integrity, supports compliance, and ensures accurate reimbursement. Providers and medical coders should understand its requirements to avoid billing errors and claim denials.