When Should You Use HCPCS Level II G Codes?

By Linda Tauber, CPC, CPMA, CRC, CPB
AAPC Approved Instructor

What Are HCPCS G Codes?

HCPCS Level II G codes are temporary national codes established by CMS to identify services and procedures that either do not have an appropriate CPT® code or require Medicare-specific reporting.

When Should You Use a G Code?

Use a G code only when the payer requires it. This most commonly applies to Traditional Medicare and certain Medicare Advantage plans. Always verify current payer guidance before billing.

Common Uses

• Medicare preventive services
• Screening examinations
• Care management services
• Certain telehealth services
• Behavioral health integration
• Quality reporting initiatives

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Reporting a CPT® code when Medicare requires a G code.
• Assuming every payer follows Medicare rules.
• Using outdated HCPCS codes.
• Ignoring CMS documentation requirements.

Final Thought

Accurate coding is more than selecting a code that describes the service—it is selecting the code the payer requires. Understanding when to use HCPCS G codes can improve compliance and reduce claim denials.