Adaptive behavior treatment by protocol, administered by technician, face-to-face with one patient; each additional 30 minutes of technician time (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Adaptive Behavior Treatment by Protocol, Administered by Technician, Face-to-Face with One Patient; Each Additional 30 Minutes of Technician Time
Summary
This procedure involves a technician working directly with a patient, typically a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), to implement a structured treatment plan designed to improve adaptive behaviors. The session lasts for an additional 30 minutes of technician time beyond the initial primary procedure.
Purpose
The procedure aims to enhance specific adaptive behaviors such as communication, social skills, and daily living activities in patients diagnosed with ASD or other developmental disorders. The goal is to help the patient achieve greater independence and improved overall functioning.
Indications
- Difficulty with social interactions
- Delays in communication skills
- Challenges in performing daily living tasks
- Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or similar developmental disorders
Preparation
- No specific fasting or medication adjustments are usually required.
- An initial assessment to identify the patient's specific needs and baseline skills may be conducted.
Procedure Description
- The technician meets with the patient in a controlled setting.
- Based on a pre-established protocol, the technician engages the patient in a series of activities designed to target specific adaptive behaviors.
- Techniques may include prompts, reinforcements, and modeling appropriate behaviors.
- All activities are tailored to the individual needs of the patient and are adjusted as the session progresses.
- Data on the patient’s performance and progress is collected throughout the session.
Duration
Each additional 30-minute session, separate from the primary procedure time.
Setting
The procedure is typically performed in a specialized outpatient clinic, therapy center, or sometimes in the patient's home where the environment is controlled and conducive to learning.
Personnel
- Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who designs the treatment plan
- Technicians or Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) who administer the treatment
Risks and Complications
- Mild frustration or resistance from the patient due to the structured activities
- Rarely, behavioral outbursts may occur, which are managed by trained technicians
Benefits
- Improvements in adaptive skills such as social interactions and daily living activities.
- Increased independence and quality of life for the patient.
- Benefits are typically observed progressively over a series of sessions.
Recovery
- No specific recovery period is needed.
- Patients can usually resume their normal activities immediately following each session.
- Follow-up sessions are scheduled as part of an ongoing treatment plan.
Alternatives
- Alternative therapies include speech therapy, occupational therapy, and traditional behavioral therapy.
- Each alternative has its pros and cons, and a comprehensive treatment plan may incorporate multiple therapies for the best outcomes.
Patient Experience
- The patient may experience initial difficulty or resistance but typically adjusts over time.
- Positive reinforcement and supportive interaction are used to maintain patient comfort and cooperation.
- Pain management is generally not required, but efforts are made to ensure the patient feels safe and supported throughout the session.