Can D9994 be used for all patients?

D9994 is particularly beneficial for patients with low oral health literacy or those facing cultural or language barriers.

How should the educational session be documented?

Document the educational content, time spent, and any cultural or language adaptations made during the session.

Are there any insurance limitations for D9994?

Coverage varies by insurance provider, so it's important to verify patient benefits and coverage for this code.

Is D9994 used frequently in dental practices?

It is used in practices that prioritize patient education and cultural competence, especially in diverse communities.

D9994

Patient Education - CDT Code Guide

Adjunctive General Services/Non-clinical procedures

Overview

CDT Code D9994 is designed to enhance a patient's oral health literacy through personalized education. This code involves providing tailored information to help patients make informed health decisions. The communication is customized to respect the patient's economic background, cultural beliefs, and language preferences. This service goes beyond a standard oral evaluation or case presentation, requiring additional time and resources. It is particularly useful in diverse patient populations where understanding and adapting to different cultural contexts is crucial for effective dental care.

When to Use This Code

When a patient requires detailed education to understand their oral health condition and treatment options.
In cases where cultural or language barriers may impede a patient's understanding of dental advice.
For patients with low oral health literacy who need guidance to make informed decisions.
When developing a personalized oral health plan that considers a patient's unique circumstances.
In community outreach programs aimed at improving public oral health literacy.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the educational content provided to the patient.
Documentation of the patient's specific needs and how the education was tailored to meet these needs.
Records of the time spent on patient education beyond standard evaluations.
Evidence of cultural or language considerations taken into account during the session.
Patient consent and acknowledgment of the information received.

Billing Considerations

D9994 may be billed when additional time and resources are spent on patient education beyond standard evaluations. It is important to document the necessity and extent of the education provided. Check with insurance providers for coverage details, as this service may not be covered under all plans. Frequency limitations may apply, and it is advisable to verify patient eligibility and benefits beforehand.

Related CDT Codes

D0140 D0150 D0180 D9992 D9993

Frequently Asked Questions

The main purpose is to improve a patient's oral health literacy through personalized education, helping them make informed health decisions.

Need help with dental coding?

Our AI-powered assistant can answer your CDT code questions instantly.

Try CDT Code Lookup Browse All CDT Codes