A Practical Coding Guide With Examples (CPT® 76014–76019)
Patients who have implanted medical devices or retained foreign bodies often require additional safety evaluation before undergoing an MRI. These safety steps are critical because the MRI’s strong magnetic field can cause device movement, heating, malfunction, or patient injury, as well as damage to the MRI equipment itself.
To standardize reporting of these services, CPT® codes 76014–76019 were introduced in 2025. These codes describe pre-MRI safety checks, physician involvement, medical physics services, and device preparation or positioning.
For medical coders, understanding who performs the service, what documentation is required, and when each code applies is essential.
1. Initial MRI Safety Review
CPT® 76014 and +76015
These services occur before the MRI scan begins and are commonly performed by an MR safety technician, though a physician may also perform them.
CPT® 76014 – MRI Safety Record Review
What it covers:
Review of existing medical records
Verification of implant type, manufacturer, model, and MR safety status
Identification of any MRI contraindications
Key point for coders:
No external research is required—this code is for reviewing available documentation only.
Example:
A patient with bilateral knee replacements is scheduled for an MRI of the lumbar spine.
The MR safety technician reviews:
Operative notes
Implant cards
Prior imaging reports
All information confirms the implants are MR-conditional, and no further investigation is needed.
✅ Code reported: 76014
+CPT® 76015 – Additional Implant Investigation (Add-On Code)
What it covers:
Extra work to obtain missing implant details
Contacting manufacturers, surgeons, or other providers
Speaking directly with the patient to clarify implant information
Coding rules:
Must be reported with 76014
Limited to 3 units per MRI session
Example:
During the record review, the implant model number is missing.
The technician:
Calls the orthopedic surgeon’s office
Contacts the implant manufacturer
Reviews archived operative records
Each separate investigation supports reporting +76015.
✅ Codes reported:
76014
+76015 (up to 3 units if justified)
2. Physician or QHP Involvement
CPT® 76016 and 76017
These codes apply when clinical judgment or specialized expertise is required.
CPT® 76016 – Physician/QHP Patient Assessment
What it covers:
Direct communication with the patient
Clinical evaluation of unclear implant history
Determination of MRI safety when records are incomplete
Who may bill:
Physician or other Qualified Health Care Professional (QHP)
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Example:
A patient reports having “metal clips” from surgery 20 years ago but does not know:
The location
The type of metal
The procedure performed
The physician interviews the patient, reviews history, and determines whether MRI can safely proceed.
✅ Code reported: 76016
CPT® 76017 – Medical Physics Services
What it covers:
Involvement of a medical physicist
Adjustment of MRI protocols
Assessment of implant interaction with magnetic fields
Documentation tip:
A written physics report is typically required.
Example:
A patient with a deep brain stimulator requires an MRI.
A medical physicist:
Reviews device specifications
Modifies MRI parameters
Ensures scanning stays within safety limits
✅ Code reported: 76017
(May be billed with 76018 or 76019 when appropriate)
3. Device Preparation and Positioning
CPT® 76018 and 76019
These services apply when an implant requires active management before or during the MRI.
CPT® 76018 – Implant Placement in Protective Mode
What it covers:
Reprogramming or adjusting a device for MRI safety
Common with pacemakers, ICDs, and neurostimulators
Example:
Before MRI scanning, a cardiologist places a patient’s pacemaker into MRI-safe mode and restores normal function afterward.
✅ Code reported: 76018
➕ Add 76017 if a medical physicist is involved
CPT® 76019 – Implant Repositioning or Immobilization
What it covers:
Physical repositioning or stabilization of an implant
Preventing device movement or heating during MRI
Example:
A patient has a superficial metallic port near the scan field.
The implant is secured and immobilized to reduce risk during imaging.
✅ Code reported: 76019
➕ Add 76017 if physics services are required
Important Coding Notes for Medical Coders
76017–76019 are modifier 51 exempt (do not apply multiple procedure reduction)
+76015 is an add-on code and cannot be billed alone
Documentation must clearly support:
The reason for additional work
Who performed each service
Clinical necessity for safety evaluation
Summary for Coders
CPT® codes 76014–76019 create a clear, standardized framework for reporting MRI safety services in patients with implants or foreign bodies. These codes range from basic record review to complex, physics-assisted device management.
For medical coders, accurate reporting depends on:
Understanding service level distinctions
Confirming appropriate provider involvement
Ensuring complete documentation
With proper coding and documentation, these services reflect the essential behind-the-scenes work that keeps MRI procedures safe, effective, and compliant.