When and How to Bill CPT 90792 for Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation with Medical Services

When to Use CPT Code 90792

CPT 90792 is used for the initial psychiatric diagnostic evaluation with medical services.
This code includes both the mental health evaluation and a medical assessment (e.g., prescribing or reviewing medications).

• •Duration: Typically 45–60 minutes
• •When to bill: The first evaluation by a psychiatrist or prescribing provider
• •Who uses it: Psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, physician assistants

Common scenarios:

• •Psychiatric intake that includes medication review or initiation
• •Evaluation of comorbid mental and physical health conditions
• •Transition of care from therapy-only to medication-supported treatment

Insurance Verification Tips for CPT 90792

1. •Confirm provider credentials (psychiatrist or prescribing clinician).
2. •Check plan coverage for psychiatric diagnostic evaluations.
3. •Ensure documentation includes both psychiatric and medical components.
4. •Include time spent, medical decision-making, and prescribed medications.

Example Case of CPT 90792

A psychiatrist performs an initial evaluation for a patient with major depressive disorder.
They review medical history, perform a mental status exam, and prescribe an antidepressant.
One unit of CPT 90792 is billed for the session.