70450
CT head/brain, without contrast
Computed tomography of the head or brain without contrast material. CMS 2026 global wRVU 0.85, total RVU approximately 3.07, Medicare global allowable approximately $103. The workhorse ED and outpatient neuroimaging study. Modifier 26 for hospital interpretation; TC for imaging center facility-only billing.
Billing guidance for 70450 is locked
- When to use it: the exact clinical situations that support billing 70450
- Documentation checklist: the 5 elements your note needs before submitting
- Common pitfalls: the 5 mistakes that get 70450 downcoded or denied
Payer notes
Medicare covers 70450 with a documented neurologic indication. Medicare Advantage plans commonly require prior authorization for outpatient head CT; ED CT is typically auto-approved post-care. Commercial payers vary — Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, and Anthem require pre-authorization for outpatient head CT except in emergency or post-trauma settings. Patients with prior intracranial pathology, anticoagulation, or shunt may have lower auth barriers.