What CPT Code 93010 Covers

CPT 93010 is defined as:
Electrocardiogram, routine ECG with at least 12 leads; interpretation and report only

This means the provider:

• Reviews the ECG tracing
• Applies clinical judgment to evaluate rate, rhythm, intervals, and waveform patterns
• Documents a formal interpretation with findings and clinical conclusions
• Signs and dates the report

This code does not include:

• Setting up the leads
• Recording the test
• Operating ECG equipment

Those are considered technical services and are billed separately using CPT 93005.

Appropriate Use of CPT 93010

Use CPT 93010 when:

• Your provider interprets an ECG that was already performed by someone else
• A hospital or diagnostic center completes the tracing, and your provider documents the report
• Interpretation is performed separately from the encounter where the ECG was done
  
  

Do not use CPT 93010 when:

• The same provider or billing group also performed the test → use CPT 93000 instead
• There’s no documented interpretation in the record
• The provider simply signs off on automated ECG results without personal input
  
  

Where CPT 93010 Is Commonly Billed

CPT 93010 is most often used in:

• Emergency departments
• Hospital inpatient units
• Telecardiology services
• Independent cardiology practices receiving outside ECGs
• Post-discharge interpretations (when ECGs were performed earlier)

The common factor in all these cases is that the tracing is separate from the interpretation.

CPT 93010 vs Other ECG Codes

Here’s how 93010 compares with related ECG billing codes:

If your provider only interprets the ECG, 93010 is the correct code.

Required Elements in the Interpretation

To bill 93010, payers expect a complete written interpretation. This should include:

• Patient info and date of service
• Reason for the ECG (symptom, diagnosis, pre-op, etc.)
• Findings (rate, rhythm, intervals, waveform abnormalities, axis)
• Clinical impression (normal ECG, non-specific ST changes, etc.)
• Comparison to previous ECG (if applicable)
• Physician name, credentials, and signature

The interpretation should be separate from the visit note and must not rely solely on computer-generated ECG summaries.

When Do Modifiers Apply to CPT 93010?

Even though CPT 93010 already represents the professional component, some situations may call for modifiers.

Always confirm modifier rules with the patient’s insurance or MAC. Some private payers auto-deny 93010 without modifier 26.

Diagnosis Codes That Support CPT 93010

To avoid denials, link 93010 with a diagnosis code that explains why the ECG was necessary.

Avoid using Z13.6 (screening) as the only diagnosis—it may result in non-payment.

Common Billing Mistakes with 93010

Below are common reasons payers reject claims with 93010—and how to correct them.

🔴 No documented interpretation

• ✅ Always include a signed formal report
  
  

🔴 Billed together with CPT 93000

• ✅ Use 93010 only when interpretation is separate from tracing
  
  

🔴 Incorrect diagnosis code

• ✅ Link symptoms or existing cardiac conditions, not general checkup codes
  
  

🔴 Missing modifier (when payer requires it)

• ✅ Add modifier 26 or 76 as appropriate
  
  

Sample Billing Scenarios

Scenario 1
A hospital performs the ECG. A cardiologist in your practice interprets it.
→ Hospital bills 93005
→ Your practice bills 93010

Scenario 2
Patient has two ECGs in the same day after a change in condition.
→ First interpretation: 93010
→ Second interpretation: 93010 with modifier 76

Scenario 3
Your provider reads an ECG performed at another facility via telemedicine.
→ Bill 93010. Add modifier 26 only if the payer requires it.

What Payers Look For With CPT 93010

✔ Clear and complete report signed by the interpreting provider
✔ Diagnosis that supports why the ECG was needed
✔ Modifier (if payer or LCD policy requires it)
✔ No overlap with 93000 or other bundled procedures
✔ Billing separated from the technical component (93005)

When in doubt, check the payer’s Local Coverage Determination (LCD) or contact provider relations.

Final Notes

CPT 93010 is straightforward, but it’s often mishandled because the interpretation is seen as “just a note.” In reality, it’s a billable medical service that must meet documentation and payer standards.

If your team handles ECG interpretation billing, make sure:

• Reports are complete and signed
• Modifiers are applied when needed
• You coordinate with the facility performing the test
• Claims match documentation exactly

This keeps your billing compliant, clean, and less likely to face denials or audits.

FAQs About CPT 93010

Can 93010 be billed for ECG review during a routine visit?
Only if a formal interpretation is provided. Review alone isn’t billable.

Can I bill 93010 if the provider uses auto-generated ECG results?
No. The interpretation must come from a licensed provider, not the machine.

Do I need modifier 26 for 93010?
Not usually. But some payers expect it anyway. Check your payer contracts.

Is 93010 payable if the ECG was done at another facility?
Yes. If your provider performs the interpretation and documents it properly.