Modifier FQ: Service furnished using audio-only telecommunications technology

Modifier Code

Code Type

Billing modifier

When to Use Modifier FQ

Use modifier FQ when a behavioral health service is furnished using audio-only (telephone) telecommunications — meaning without video. CMS introduced this modifier during the COVID-19 public health emergency to enable phone-only therapy reimbursement. Confirm that the patient is unable to use or does not have access to video technology and document this limitation in the clinical record.

CPT Codes Commonly Paired with Modifier FQ

These CPT codes are frequently billed alongside modifier FQ in therapy practice:

CPT 90837 - Psychotherapy, 60 minutes CPT 90834 - Psychotherapy, 45 minutes CPT 90832 - Psychotherapy, 30 minutes CPT 90791 - Psychiatric diagnostic evaluation CPT 90847 - Family psychotherapy with patient present

Superbill Notes for Modifier FQ

What to include: Document that the service was conducted via audio-only phone and note the reason video was not used. Include the patient's stated inability or unavailability to access video technology as part of the clinical record.

Adding Modifier FQ to a Superbill

Superbilled lets you add modifier codes directly to each line item on your superbill. When generating a superbill with modifier FQ, make sure to include your NPI number, the patient's diagnosis code, date of service, fee charged, and amount paid. The modifier appears alongside the CPT code on the claim.

Generate a superbill with Modifier FQ free