Which statement best describes Category III CPT codes?

• A. Codes used only for inpatient procedures
• B. Codes for established procedures
• C. Temporary codes for emerging technologies and research
• D. Global surgery codes

Answer: (C)

Category III CPT codes are five-digit codes that end with a T and are used to track emerging technologies, services, and procedures that are not yet widely adopted or proven. They serve as temporary codes to collect data on usage, outcomes, safety, and effectiveness while more evidence is gathered. If the procedures gain broad acceptance and supporting data, they may move into Category I; if not adopted, they can be retired. These codes are not for established procedures (those belong to Category I), they aren’t restricted to inpatient settings, and they aren’t the global surgery codes.