CPT 73501Radiology

X-ray exam hip uni 1 view

CPT code 73501 covers a single-view X-ray examination of the hip. This is the simplest hip imaging study, typically used for initial evaluation of hip pain, injury, or suspected fracture.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$32.35

This calculator gives a typical-case estimate using standard Medicare modifier rules. Actual payment depends on payer policies, documentation, code-specific CMS status indicators, and locality. Verify before billing.

RVU breakdown

Work RVU

0.18

PE RVU (NF)

0.8

MP RVU

0.02

Total RVU

Conversion factor: 32.3465 · Source: CMS MPFS RVU25A · Confidence: High

NCCI bundling edits

Loading bundling edits…

Billing tips

Verify the number of views actually performed before coding - 73501 is for ONE view only; if two or more views were taken, use 73502 (2-3 views) instead
Impact: Using 73502 when appropriate increases reimbursement by approximately $10-15 per examination and prevents undercoding
Always append RT or LT modifier to specify laterality, as required by most payers including Medicare
Impact: Prevents automatic denials and payment delays; failure to specify laterality can result in claim rejection requiring resubmission
For bilateral hip X-rays (both hips, one view each), bill 73501-RT and 73501-LT with modifier 59 on the second line to prevent bundling
Impact: Ensures payment for both sides; without proper modifiers, payers may only reimburse for one side, losing approximately $32.35
Split-bill using 26 and TC modifiers when professional and technical components are provided by different entities (hospital vs. reading radiologist)
Impact: Ensures both entities receive appropriate payment; improper split billing can result in overpayment recovery audits
Document the specific clinical indication and view obtained in the radiology report to support medical necessity for a single-view study
Impact: Reduces audit risk and supports payment; lack of documented medical necessity is a top reason for retrospective denials
Be aware of LCD/NCD coverage limitations requiring prior authorization for screening hip X-rays or non-acute indications
Impact: Prevents denials for non-covered services; obtaining ABN when appropriate protects practice revenue if claim is denied

Live Field Datano reports yet

Real billers contribute denial patterns and appeal strategies for this code. Once 5+ reports come in, you’ll see live aggregated data here — the only place this exists, free.

Working with CPT 73501?

Get the free Revenue Protection Toolkit — the denial triggers, modifier pitfalls, and bundling conflicts that quietly cost you reimbursement. Instant download.

Help build the field knowledge

MedPayIQ gets smarter as billers contribute. If you've had this code denied, share what happened so others learn from it. Anonymous, no patient info.

Related actions

Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT 73501 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement for CPT 73501 is $32.35 for both facility and non-facility settings. This rate is based on 1.0 total RVUs (0.18 work RVU, 0.8 PE RVU, 0.02 MP RVU) multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465.

What is the difference between CPT codes 73501, 73502, and 73503?

The difference is the number of views obtained: 73501 covers one view of the hip, 73502 covers 2-3 views, and 73503 covers a minimum of 4 views or a complete study. The code selection must match the actual number of distinct radiographic projections performed and interpreted.

Do I need a modifier for CPT 73501 for Medicare billing?

Yes, laterality modifiers RT (right) or LT (left) are required by Medicare and most payers when billing 73501. Additionally, if billing only the professional or technical component separately, you must use modifier 26 (professional) or TC (technical component).

Can I bill 73501 twice for bilateral hip X-rays?

Yes, for bilateral single-view hip X-rays, bill 73501-RT for the right hip and 73501-LT for the left hip. Add modifier 59 to the second line item to prevent automatic bundling and ensure payment for both sides.

What are the RVU values for CPT 73501 in 2025?

CPT 73501 has total RVUs of 1.0, consisting of 0.18 work RVU, 0.8 practice expense RVU (both facility and non-facility), and 0.02 malpractice RVU, according to the CMS Medicare Physician Fee Schedule RVU25A released December 23, 2024.

When is it appropriate to use 73501 instead of 73502?

Use 73501 when only a single radiographic view is medically necessary and clinically appropriate, such as for targeted follow-up of known pathology, post-operative hardware checks, or when comparing to a specific prior view. If the clinical question requires multiple projections for adequate evaluation, 73502 or 73503 is more appropriate.

Does CPT 73501 require prior authorization from insurance?

Prior authorization requirements vary by payer and clinical indication. Most payers do not require prior authorization for X-rays ordered for acute trauma or pain, but some may require authorization for screening studies, repeat imaging within short timeframes, or non-acute indications. Always verify payer-specific requirements before performing the service.