What does the acronym HCPCS stand for?

The acronym HCPCS stands for "Healthcare Common Procedures Coding System." This coding system is vital for reporting services, supplies, and procedures in the healthcare industry, especially when it comes to billing for Medicare and Medicaid services. The HCPCS is divided into two levels: Level I codes are the same as the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, while Level II codes cover non-physician services like ambulance services, durable medical equipment, and other items not classified in CPT. Understanding this acronym and its implications is key for medical coders, as it directly influences reimbursement and healthcare documentation practices.