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90471

Immunization Administration (First Vaccine)

Code Description

CPT code 90471 is used to report the administration of the first vaccine or toxoid by injection during a patient encounter. The code represents the administration service only and does not include the vaccine product itself, which is reported separately using the appropriate CPT or HCPCS code.

This code is commonly used when administering vaccines by intramuscular, subcutaneous, intradermal, or percutaneous injection. If additional injectable vaccines are administered during the same visit, CPT code 90472 is reported for each additional vaccine when appropriate.

When to Use 90471

Common examples include:

  • Influenza vaccination

  • Tetanus vaccination

  • Hepatitis vaccination

  • Shingles vaccination

  • Pneumococcal vaccination

  • Administration of a single injectable vaccine

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include:

  • Reason for immunization

  • Vaccine administered

  • Route of administration

  • Administration date

  • Vaccine manufacturer and lot number

  • Medical necessity when applicable

Common Billing Mistakes

Common billing mistakes include:

  • Billing 90471 without the vaccine product code

  • Reporting 90471 more than once for the first vaccine during the same encounter

  • Reporting 90471 instead of 90472 for additional injectable vaccines

  • Using the incorrect immunization administration code family

  • Incomplete vaccine documentation

Related CPT Codes
90472

Additional Vaccine Administration

96372

Therapeutic Injection

90791

Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation

FAQ

What does CPT code 90471 cover?

CPT code 90471 reports the administration of the first injectable vaccine during a patient encounter. The vaccine product itself is billed separately.

Does CPT 90471 include the vaccine?

No. CPT 90471 reports only the administration service. The vaccine product must be reported separately using the appropriate vaccine code.

When is CPT 90472 used?

CPT 90472 is reported for each additional injectable vaccine administered during the same patient encounter after the first vaccine.

Can an E/M service be billed with CPT 90471?

Yes. When a significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service is performed and documented, an appropriate E/M code may also be reported with Modifier 25 when applicable.

Procedure Type

Immunization Administration

Route

Time

Injection

First Vaccine Administration