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See a sample rate comparisonCPT 32540 Fee Schedule
Last Verified: October 2026
Healthcare providers use this code to document and receive reimbursement for visits that address high-level medical decision-making, often including multiple diagnoses or prescription management.
Removal Of Chest Abscess, Surgery To Remove Infected Tissue And Secretions (Empyema) From The Chest Interior. The Procedure Involves Removing The Tissue Lining The Area Around The Empyema.
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Service Type | Surgery Surgical Procedures on the Respiratory System |
| Common Place of Service | 21 - Inpatient Hospital 22 - On Campus Outpatient Hospital 11 - Office |
| Common Modifiers | RT - Right side of body 59 - Distinct Procedural Service |
| Complexity Level | High |
| Medicare Fee Schedule | $1,633.64 national non-facility rate (2026) · View Medicare rates for 32540 |
| Medicaid Fee Schedule | $1,267.01 median of the 8 states in the free preview · View Medicaid rates for 32540 |
National average reimbursement for CPT 32540 by major payers:
$2,278.79
$2,214.54
$2,317.19
$2,681.27
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CPT 32540
5 of 25 sample ratesHigher to lower in this preview
Premier Orthopaedic Surgery Center, LLC
$2,377.00Published rateMountain Empire Surgery Center Lp
$1,064.00Published rateCenter For Ambulatory Surgery LLC
Center For Ambulatory Surgery, L.L.C.
$802.00Published rateSoutheast Eye Laser Surgery Center
$553.00Published rateSnks Enterprises LLC, Sol Valley Surgery Center
Snks Enterprises LLC
$175.00Published rate
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See a sample payer proposalCPT 32540 vs. Other Surgical Procedures on the Respiratory System Codes
The CPT 32540 code is part of the Surgery services used for Surgical Procedures on the Respiratory 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 32540 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 32540-CPT | High | Removal Of Chest Abscess, Surgery To Remove Infected Tissue And Secretions (Empyema) From The Chest Interior. The Procedure Involves Removing The Tissue Lining The Area Around The Empyema. |
| 32551-CPT | Moderate | Tube Thoracostomy Includes Co, Tube Thoracostomy Includes Connection To Drainagesystem (Eg Water Seal) When Performed Open (Se Parate Procedure) |
| 32650-CPT | Moderate | Surgery Of Lung Lining, Surgery With The Aid Of A Scope (Thoracoscopy) To Attach Lung Tissue To The Chest Wall. The Procedure Aims To Prevent Future Lung Collapse. |
| 32652-CPT | High | Lung Surgery With A Scope, Surgery Aided By A Scope (Thoracoscopy) To Enable Lung Tissue To Expand When Breathing. The Procedure May Include Removing Scar Tissue From The Lining Of The Lung. |
What is a fee schedule?
A fee schedule is a list of fixed prices that healthcare providers charge for specific services, including CPT 32540. These prices vary depending on payer type (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance), geographic location, and provider contracts.
Understanding the 32540 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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