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See a sample rate comparisonCPT 29870 Fee Schedule
Last Verified: October 2026
Healthcare providers use this code to document and receive reimbursement for visits that address moderate-level medical decision-making, often including multiple diagnoses or prescription management.
Knee Exam Using A Scope, Exam Of The Knee Using A Scope (Arthroscopy). The Procedure May Include Taking A Sample Of Joint Fluid For Testing (Biopsy).
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Service Type | Surgery Surgical Procedures on the Musculoskeletal System |
| Common Place of Service | 24 - Ambulatory Surgical Center 22 - On Campus Outpatient Hospital |
| Common Modifiers | None 59 - Distinct Procedural Service RT - Right side of body |
| Complexity Level | Moderate |
| Medicare Fee Schedule | View Medicare rates for 29870 |
| Medicaid Fee Schedule | View Medicaid rates for 29870 |
National average reimbursement for CPT 29870 by major payers:
$705.41
$723.18
$795.29
$692.74
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CPT 29870
5 of 25 sample ratesHigher to lower in this preview
Summit Ambulatory Surgical Center, LLC
$3,623.00Published rateNei Ambulatory Surgery Center Inc PC
$2,300.00Published rateMid-Atlantic Endoscopy Center, LLC, Mid-Atlantic Gastrointestinal Center II
Midatlantic Endoscopy Center LLC
$1,804.00Published rateJerica Mason
Deaconess Hospital Inc
$998.00Published rateAlyssa Glenn
Deaconess Hospital Inc
$458.54Published rate
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See a sample payer proposalCPT 29870 vs. Other Surgical Procedures on the Musculoskeletal System Codes
The CPT 29870 code is part of the Surgery services used for Surgical Procedures on the Musculoskeletal System. It represents a moderate-complexity encounter and is one of several codes that vary based on time spent, level of medical decision-making, and documentation requirements.
The CPT 29870 code involves more provider time and moderate medical decision-making, unlike lower-level codes that require less time and simpler assessments. It typically includes multiple diagnoses, medication management, or test interpretation, leading to higher reimbursement and more detailed documentation requirements.
| Code | Complexity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 29870-CPT | Moderate | Knee Exam Using A Scope, Exam Of The Knee Using A Scope (Arthroscopy). The Procedure May Include Taking A Sample Of Joint Fluid For Testing (Biopsy). |
| 29871-CPT | Moderate | Knee Surgery With Scope, Knee Surgery Aided By A Scope (Arthroscopy). The Procedure May Drain An Infection Or Remove Scar Tissue Or A Foreign Object. |
| 29873-CPT | Moderate | Knee Surgery With Scope, Knee Surgery Aided By A Scope (Arthroscopy). The Procedure May Drain An Infection Or Remove Scar Tissue Or A Foreign Object. |
| 29874-CPT | Moderate | Arthrs Knee Surg Rmv Loos/Fb, Arthroscopy Knee Surgical; For Removal Of Loose Body Or Foreign Body (Eg Osteochondritis Dissecans Fragmentation Chondral Fragmentation) |
What is a fee schedule?
A fee schedule is a list of fixed prices that healthcare providers charge for specific services, including CPT 29870. These prices vary depending on payer type (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance), geographic location, and provider contracts.
Understanding the 29870 fee schedule helps patients estimate costs and providers optimize billing for accurate reimbursements.
Factors that affect fee schedules
Medicare & Medicaid Rates
Government-set reimbursement amounts
Private Insurance Rates
Negotiated rates between providers and insurance companies
Geographic Location
Costs may be higher in urban areas.
Provider Type
Hospital providers may have different rates than private practice.
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