CPT 2026 AI Codes: What Medical Coders Need to Know
AMA’s CPT 2026 set introduced Category I codes for AI-augmented services. Here’s what coders need to know about 75577 and the new billing landscape.
The AMA’s CPT 2026 code set introduced Category I codes for AI-augmented services for the first time. Here is what coders need to know about 75577 and the new AI billing landscape.
What CPT 75577 Covers
Code 75577 describes AI-assisted coronary CT analysis — specifically, the AI evaluation of coronary CT angiography for stenosis and plaque characterization. The code reflects the AI’s role as an enhancement to physician interpretation, not a replacement for it.
The Multimodal AI Evaluation Codes
0992T and 0993T are Category III codes for multimodal AI evaluation in cardiovascular imaging. Category III codes are tracking codes — they do not carry assigned RVUs and reimbursement is payer-discretionary. Coders should expect payer-specific coverage policies to vary widely in 2026.
What Coders Should Do
- Verify which AI products at your facility map to 75577 vs Category III codes
- Confirm payer-specific coverage policies before billing
- Document the AI’s contribution to the physician’s interpretation in the report
- Track payer denial patterns to inform 2027 coverage advocacy
The Broader Shift
CPT 2026 is the beginning of AI-aware coding, not the end. Expect more Category I and Category III codes for AI services in 2027 and beyond. Coders who develop fluency in AI service classification now will be ahead.