How to Bill CPT G0396 for Substance Use Disorder Services

When to Use CPT Code G0396

CPT G0396 is used for substance use disorder–related services, including screening, assessment, testing, and counseling.

• •Service type: Substance use disorder services
• •Focus: Identification, intervention, and treatment
• •Who uses it: Physicians, therapists, and qualified healthcare providers

Common scenarios:

• •Alcohol or drug misuse screening
• •Substance use assessments
• •Individual or group counseling
• •Drug testing to support treatment planning

Insurance Verification Tips for CPT G0396

1. •Verify payer coverage for substance use services.
2. •Confirm time and documentation requirements.
3. •Check limits on screening or testing frequency.
4. •Ensure correct pairing with diagnosis codes.

Example Case of CPT G0396

A provider performs substance use screening, assessment, testing, or counseling based on the patient’s clinical needs.
The service is documented and billed as one unit of CPT G0396.