CPT 90837 + ICD-10 F33.1: Major depressive disorder, recurrent, moderate
Psychotherapy, 60 minutes billed with Major depressive disorder, recurrent, moderate — documentation requirements, denial reasons, modifiers, and reimbursement context.
CPT Code
90837
Psychotherapy, 60 minutes
ICD-10 Code
F33.1
Major depressive disorder, recurrent, moderate
Compatibility Notes
A very high-volume combination for therapists treating moderate recurrent depression. F33.1 indicates a recurrent MDD episode at moderate severity. This pairing is supported by virtually all commercial payers and is the most common MDD code seen in long-term outpatient therapy for depression.
Documentation Required
- ✓Session start and stop times confirming 53+ minutes
- ✓PHQ-9 score in moderate range (10–14) or equivalent narrative assessment
- ✓Documented history of prior MDD episode confirming recurrent course
- ✓Current episode functional impact documented
- ✓Risk assessment for suicidal ideation
- ✓Evidence-based modality and treatment plan goals addressed
Common Denial Reasons
- ✗Prior episode not documented in the clinical record — single-episode codes (F32.x) may be required
- ✗PHQ-9 inconsistent with moderate specifier
- ✗Session time below 53 minutes
- ✗Frequency exceeds authorization without updated PA
Applicable Modifiers
Reimbursement Notes
OON UCR is $130–$210. This is one of the best-reimbursed routine combinations in outpatient mental health therapy. PPO plans and Medicare Advantage plans typically process this code without additional documentation requests.
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