what is a hcpcs code used for
There are HCPCS codes to describe cast supplies and some temporary codes established by private payers. In this instance, the use of the word temporary can be misleading. Some HCPCS codes are longstanding codes developed by Medicare to describe a service that is similar to or the same as a CPT code. CMS uses the code to differentiate between a preventive service and a therapeutic or diagnostic service.
There are also national codes developed by CMS to identify procedures or professional services on a temporary basis or preventive services. HCPCS also includes behavioral health codes used by some state Medicaid programs. Some Quality Data Codes used to report on the Physician Quality Reporting System are HCPCS codes.