American Medical Association approves 1st artificial intelligence CPT code specific to radiology

The American Medical Association has approved the first current procedural terminology code for an artificial intelligence application specific to radiology, according to an announcement published Wednesday.

The category 3 CPT code applies to Zebra Medical Vision’s AI tool used to detect incidental vertebral compression fractures on chest CT scans.

Multiple imaging advocates submitted this code to the AMA’s CPT Editorial Panel for approval, including the American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America, American Roentgen Ray Society, and Association of University Radiologists.

“The latest … approval by the AMA is an industry milestone in the effort to boost the adoption of AI in imaging for VCFs, and other underdiagnosed chronic conditions for which AI can help reveal and drive care,” said Zohar Elhanani, CEO of Shefayim, Israel-based Zebra Medical Vision.

Approximately 50% of women and nearly a quarter of men over the age of 50 will suffer an osteoporotic fracture, costing the U.S. healthcare system nearly $52 billion each year, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

Organizations using this software cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration can increase detection rates without added imaging, radiation or staff, according to Zebra.

“Backed by such a major endorsement from the CPT panel and Zebra Medical Vision’s technology, radiologists will now be able to identify more patients with undiagnosed fractures and provide better care for patients who may be vulnerable,” Elhanani said Wednesday.