S8948 HCPCS code: Application of a modality (requiring constant provider attendance) to one or more areas; low-level laser; each 15 minutes
S8948 is the HCPCS Level II code for application of a modality (requiring constant provider attendance) to one or more areas; low-level laser; each 15 minutes. Its Medicare coverage code is I (Not payable by Medicare): Medicare does not pay separately under this code; another code applies.
Code details
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Section | S codes — Temporary national codes (non-Medicare) |
| Coverage code | I — Not payable by Medicare |
| Pricing indicator | 00 — Not separately priced by Medicare |
| BETOS category | Z2 |
| Added | 2004-01-01 |
| Last action effective | 2004-01-01 |
What changed for S8948
- 2004-01-01: S8948 added to HCPCS Level II
- Next scheduled CMS quarterly update (HCPCS and DMEPOS fee schedule): 2027-01-01
Frequently asked questions
What is HCPCS code S8948?
S8948 is the HCPCS Level II code for application of a modality (requiring constant provider attendance) to one or more areas; low-level laser; each 15 minutes. Short descriptor: "Low-level laser trmt 15 min".
Does Medicare cover S8948?
Coverage code I — Not payable by Medicare. Medicare does not pay separately under this code; another code applies.
Related S89 codes
- S8930 — Electrical stimulation of auricular acupuncture points; each 15 minutes of personal one-on-one contact with the patient
- S8940 — Equestrian/hippotherapy, per session
- S8950 — Complex lymphedema therapy, each 15 minutes
- S8990 — Physical or manipulative therapy performed for maintenance rather than restoration
- S8999 — Resuscitation bag (for use by patient on artificial respiration during power failure or other catastrophic event)
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Next steps
- Run a reimbursement report for a device billed under S8948
- Watch S8948 for fee, coverage and descriptor changes
- Build a full Medicare revenue model for S8948
Sources: CMS HCPCS Level II release October 2025; CMS DMEPOS fee schedule; CMS NCCI MUE tables; CMS Medicare utilization (physician and DME supplier files); CMS Medicare Coverage Database articles. Fees are Medicare allowables, not commercial rates. Not billing or legal advice.