Quick Facts

Status

RT

Modifier RT

Right Side

Active

Global Period

Not Applicable

Modifier

RT

Applies To

Right Side Procedures and Services

Category

Use With

Anatomical

CPT & HCPCS Codes

What is Modifier RT?

Modifier RT indicates that a procedure, service, or item was performed on the right side of the patient's body. It helps identify the correct anatomical location for billing, claims processing, and medical record documentation.

Modifier RT should only be reported when the CPT or HCPCS code allows laterality and payer guidelines require identification of the right side.

When to Use

  • A procedure is performed on the right side of the body.

  • A medical device or durable medical equipment is provided for the right side.

  • Laterality is required by the payer.

  • The CPT or HCPCS code does not already specify the right side.

  • Documentation clearly identifies the right anatomical site.

Documentation Requirements

  • Document the right anatomical site.

  • Include the procedure or service performed.

  • Support medical necessity.

  • Maintain complete physician documentation.

  • Ensure the medical record identifies the correct laterality.

Examples
Example 1

A physician performs a corticosteroid injection into the patient's right shoulder. Modifier RT is appended to identify the procedure was performed on the right side.

Example 2

A patient receives a right wrist splint following an injury. Modifier RT is reported with the appropriate HCPCS code to identify the item was provided for the right side.

Billing Tips

  • Use RT only when reporting services performed on the right side.

  • Confirm the procedure code allows laterality modifiers.

  • Ensure documentation supports the anatomical site.

  • Follow payer-specific billing requirements.

  • Verify whether RT, LT, or bilateral reporting is required.

Common Billing Mistakes

  • Reporting RT when the procedure code already specifies the right side.

  • Failing to document the anatomical site.

  • Using RT when LT should be reported.

  • Reporting RT when bilateral modifiers are required.

  • Omitting laterality when required by the payer.

Related Modifiers
Modifier LT

Left Side

Modifier 50

Bilateral Procedure

Modifier 59

Distinct Procedural Service

Additional Resources

CPTCodeGuide provides a concise reference for Modifier RT. For detailed billing guidance, documentation requirements, examples, anatomical coding rules, and modifier comparisons, visit ModifierLookup.com for the complete Modifier RT guide.