CPT Code Overview

CPT code 92524 is used for the behavioral and qualitative analysis of voice and resonance. This procedure is performed by speech-language pathologists to assess voice and resonance disorders, which can impact communication and quality of life. The service is typically provided in an office setting (Place of Service 11). This code is essential for identifying and characterizing voice and resonance issues, supporting the development of appropriate treatment plans within the field of speech-language pathology.

Clinical Context

A patient presents to a speech-language pathology office with concerns about their voice quality, such as hoarseness, loss of voice, or abnormal resonance. The clinician, typically a speech-language pathologist, conducts a behavioral and qualitative analysis of the patient's voice and resonance using CPT code 92524. This evaluation may include perceptual assessment, patient history, and structured tasks to assess voice characteristics and resonance. The workflow involves initial intake, assessment, documentation of findings, and development of a plan of care if needed. The service is commonly performed in an office setting (Place of Service 11) and may be part of an outpatient speech-language pathology plan of care.

Coding Specifications

• Modifiers:

  • GN: Services delivered under an outpatient speech-language pathology plan of care. Used when the service is part of a plan of care established by a speech-language pathologist.
  • 52: Reduced Services. Used when the procedure is partially performed or not completed as intended.

• Provider Taxonomies:

  Code	Specialty
  235Z00000X	Speech-Language Pathologist
  261QH0700X	Hearing and Speech Clinic/Center
  231H00000X	Audiologist

• Specialties Represented:

  • Speech-Language Pathologist: Evaluation and treatment of speech, language, and voice disorders.
  • Hearing and Speech Clinic/Center: Facilities specializing in hearing and speech services.
  • Audiologist: Specialists in hearing and balance, may also assess voice and resonance.

Related Diagnoses

• R49.0 - Dysphonia

  • Relevant for patients presenting with abnormal voice quality, such as hoarseness or vocal fatigue, which is directly assessed by CPT code 92524.

• R49.1 - Aphonia

  • Indicates complete loss of voice, a primary concern evaluated during behavioral and qualitative voice analysis.

• R49.8 - Other voice and resonance disorders

  • Covers a range of voice and resonance abnormalities that may be identified during the assessment.

• F80.0 - Phonological disorder

  • Pertains to speech sound production issues, which may coexist with voice and resonance disorders and be evaluated in the same session.

• J38.00 - Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified

  • Represents structural or neurological causes of voice disorders, often requiring detailed behavioral analysis as performed with CPT code 92524.

Related CPT Codes

• 92507 - Treatment of speech, language, voice, communication, and/or auditory processing disorder

  • Used for therapeutic intervention following evaluation. Commonly follows 92524 if treatment is indicated.

• 92521 - Evaluation of speech fluency

  • Assesses fluency disorders such as stuttering. May be performed alongside 92524 if voice and fluency issues coexist.

• 92522 - Evaluation of speech sound production

  • Focuses on articulation and phonological disorders. Can be used with 92524 when both voice and speech sound issues are present.

• 92523 - Evaluation of speech sound production with evaluation of language comprehension and expression

  • Combines assessment of speech sound production and language abilities. May be used as an alternative or in conjunction with 92524 for comprehensive evaluation.

These codes are often used together in a clinical workflow to provide a thorough assessment and treatment plan for patients with complex communication disorders.

Medicare's national mean rate for CPT 92524 is $113.27, which is lower than the BUCA (Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealth Group, Cigna, Aetna) average commercial mean rate of $132.75. Among commercial payers, Cigna and UnitedHealth Group have the highest mean rates at $168.68 and $155.60, respectively, while Aetna is the lowest at $108.18.

Rate dispersion, measured by the difference between the 75th and 25th percentiles, varies significantly across payers. Medicare shows the tightest range at $7.00, indicating minimal variation in rates. In contrast, Cigna has the widest dispersion at $93.00, followed by UnitedHealth Group at $86.00, reflecting greater variability in commercial reimbursement. The table and chart below present the full breakdown of national benchmarks for each payer.