AMA Updates 2026 CPT Codes to Include Remote Monitoring and AI Diagnostics
Chicago, Friday, 19 September 2025.
The American Medical Association’s 2026 update introduces new codes for remote patient monitoring and AI diagnostics, reshaping reimbursement and primary care practices with advanced technology.
Revolutionizing Remote Patient Monitoring
The 2026 update to the AMA’s Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) introduces significant advancements in remote patient monitoring. This update includes five new codes for remote monitoring services that cover shorter timeframes, allowing for monitoring periods ranging from 2 to 15 days within a 30-day period. Additionally, two new codes facilitate billing for remote monitoring treatment management after only 10 minutes of service per month [1]. These changes are particularly impactful for primary care, offering enhanced flexibility and aligning with evidence supporting shorter-term monitoring strategies [1].
AI in Diagnostics: A Leap Forward
Artificial intelligence is set to play a transformative role in diagnostics, as highlighted by the AMA’s addition of new CPT codes. Notably, a new Category I code has been introduced for the quantification and characterization of coronary atherosclerotic plaque, which is critical for assessing disease severity [1]. This inclusion underscores the growing clinical adoption of AI technologies, which are increasingly seen as essential tools in modern diagnostics. The upgrade of Cleerly’s AI coronary assessment tool from a temporary Category III to a permanent Category I code is a testament to the importance of AI in clinical practice [1].
Impact on Reimbursement and Clinical Practice
The introduction of these new codes is expected to have a substantial impact on reimbursement structures. The streamlined coding and payment processes for AI and remote monitoring technologies aim to facilitate their broader integration into clinical practices [1][3]. However, challenges remain, particularly in securing consistent reimbursement, as highlighted in recent discussions at the Community Oncology Alliance Payer Exchange Summit [2]. These challenges emphasize the need for continued dialogue between healthcare providers and payers to ensure these innovative tools can be effectively utilized in patient care.
Future Directions and Implementation Challenges
Looking ahead, the successful implementation of these CPT updates will require significant investments in infrastructure and change management. As highlighted by healthcare leaders, selecting appropriate tools is straightforward compared to the complexities of change management [2]. Future investments must focus on building the necessary infrastructure to support these technologies, ensuring they can deliver on their promise of enhanced patient care and improved outcomes [3].