CPT 73502Radiology

X-ray exam hip uni 2-3 views

CPT code 73502 covers an X-ray examination of one hip using 2 to 3 different views or angles. This is a standard diagnostic imaging procedure used to evaluate hip pain, injury, or abnormalities.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$46.26

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

0.22

PE RVU (NF)

1.19

MP RVU

0.02

Total RVU

1.43

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Always append RT or LT modifier to specify which hip was imaged to satisfy anatomical specificity requirements
Impact: Prevents automatic denials and reduces claim rejections by 15-20% for lacking laterality
Use modifier 26 or TC appropriately based on ownership and interpretation to split professional/technical components
Impact: Ensures correct payment distribution; billing global when only providing TC component results in overpayment recoupment
Do not bill 73502 if more than 3 views were taken; use 73503 (4+ views) instead to maximize appropriate reimbursement
Impact: 73503 reimburses at higher rate; undercoding with 73502 loses approximately $10-15 per encounter
Document the specific views obtained (e.g., AP, lateral, frog-leg) in both the order and interpretation report
Impact: Reduces audit risk and supports medical necessity; lack of view documentation is primary audit flag
Verify medical necessity with appropriate ICD-10 codes (trauma, pain, arthritis) linked to the order
Impact: Prevents denials for lack of medical necessity, which account for 25-30% of imaging denials
Bill bilateral hip X-rays as two units of 73502 with RT and LT modifiers, not as a single service
Impact: Ensures full reimbursement of approximately $92.52 for bilateral studies versus $46.26 for one side

Common denials

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT 73502 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement for CPT 73502 is $46.26 for both facility and non-facility settings. This is based on 1.43 total RVUs multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465.

How many views are required for CPT code 73502?

CPT 73502 requires 2 to 3 views of a single hip. If only 1 view is obtained, use code 73501. If 4 or more views are taken, code 73503 is the appropriate choice. The exact number of views must be documented in the radiology report.

Do I need a modifier when billing 73502 for a left hip X-ray?

Yes, you must append modifier LT when billing for a left hip X-ray, or RT for a right hip. Laterality modifiers are required for all paired anatomical structures and failure to include them will result in claim denials or requests for additional information.

Can I bill CPT 73502 for both hips on the same day?

Yes, when bilateral hip X-rays are performed, bill 73502 twice on separate lines: once with modifier RT for the right hip and once with modifier LT for the left hip. Each hip is reimbursed separately at the full rate when properly documented and medically necessary.

What is the difference between CPT 73502 professional and technical components?

The professional component (modifier 26) covers the physician's interpretation and written report. The technical component (modifier TC) covers the equipment, technologist, and supplies. When billed globally without modifiers, 73502 includes both components. Split billing is used when different entities provide each component.

What diagnosis codes support medical necessity for CPT 73502?

Common supporting diagnoses include hip pain (M25.551/M25.552), hip fracture (S72.0-), osteoarthritis (M16.-), trauma evaluation (S79.919A), avascular necrosis (M87.05-), and hip dysplasia (Q65.-). The diagnosis must correlate with the clinical indication documented in the ordering physician's notes.

How often can CPT 73502 be billed for the same patient?

There is no specific frequency limitation for 73502, but repeat imaging must be medically necessary and documented. Payers may question frequent repeat studies without evidence of interval change in symptoms, new trauma, or documented clinical reason for repeat evaluation. Document progression or new clinical findings to support repeat imaging.