CPT Modifier · Special

Modifier AT

Acute treatment — chiropractic manipulation for active/corrective treatment

✅ When to Use Modifier AT

Required by Medicare on CPT 98940, 98941, 98942 when chiropractic manipulation treats an acute subluxation or exacerbation of a chronic condition

⛔ When NOT to Use Modifier AT

Do not use for maintenance therapy — Medicare will deny without AT. Use only when active treatment is documented in the note.

Modifier AT FAQ

What does modifier AT mean? +

Acute treatment — chiropractic manipulation for active/corrective treatment

When should I use modifier AT? +

Required by Medicare on CPT 98940, 98941, 98942 when chiropractic manipulation treats an acute subluxation or exacerbation of a chronic condition

When should I NOT use modifier AT? +

Do not use for maintenance therapy — Medicare will deny without AT. Use only when active treatment is documented in the note.

What documentation is required for modifier AT? +

Complete chart documentation supporting the modifier's clinical or billing rationale.

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Reviewed by the PayerReady Medical Coding Team

Verified against the CMS 2026 code set on April 19, 2026.

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