Mastering Remote Therapeutic Monitoring: 2026 CPT Changes & Best Practices

Introduction

For years, Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM) has held incredible promise for physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other non-physician providers to stay connected with patients between visits.

But until now, its billing structure has been restrictive, requiring:

• At least 16 days of data transmission

• A minimum of 20 minutes of therapy-related management time

Starting January 1, 2026, RTM is getting a much-needed update.

New CPT codes allow reimbursement for just 2–15 days of data and shorter time-based interventions. This unlocks billing for a wider range of patients and scenarios—like post-injury rehab, episodic therapy, and mental health support.

Let’s explore the changes and what they mean for your practice.

Today’s RTM Landscape

Current codes include:

• 98975 for setup and education

• 98976/98977 for device data supply (≥16 days)

• 98980/98981 for 20+ minutes of therapy management

The intent is great, but many patients fall short of 16 days or need only brief interventions. These cases aren’t reimbursed, despite still requiring clinical time and digital engagement.

What’s Changing in 2026

The 2026 CPT update introduces:

1. New Device Code: 98XX4

   • Covers 2–15 days of data transmission

   • Reimbursed similar to 98976/98977

2. New Time Code: 98XX5

   • Bills for 10–19 minutes of RTM-related work

   • About 50% of 98980's value

3. Modality-Specific Updates: 98XX6, 98XX7

   • These may represent additional device-specific codes for physical or respiratory therapy monitoring (pending final guidance)

This allows your team to be paid for more types of care, without forcing patients into rigid routines.

Side-by-Side Code Comparison

Benefits for Practice Operations

• More patients qualify for RTM reimbursement, including those with episodic therapy or partial device adherence

• Short check-ins (e.g., reviewing compliance or exercise logs) are now billable

• Reduced administrative burden—no more “all-or-nothing” billing based on strict thresholds

• Better program ROI for clinics using digital therapy platforms

Impact on Providers and Care Teams

• PTs, OTs, and therapists can monetize short but meaningful touchpoints

• Staff time is fairly compensated, improving morale and workload tracking

• Supports early intervention and proactive adjustments in treatment

Patient Experience and Outcomes

• Patients are no longer penalized for missing a few device days

• Makes therapy more personalized and accessible

• Encourages consistent engagement with at-home routines

RTM Best Practices for 2026

1. Review and update your therapy protocols to align with new codes

2. Create EHR templates for 10–19 min interactions

3. Document patient education and device usage consistently

4. Track utilization and reimbursement by code for continuous improvement

5. Consider partnering with a platform like OnCare360 to integrate RTM workflows, devices, and billing

Conclusion

The 2026 CPT updates finally make Remote Therapeutic Monitoring a practical and scalable service for therapy-driven practices.

By embracing these changes early, you can improve care access, increase practice revenue, and deliver better outcomes without additional staffing or complexity.

OnCare360 helps practices like yours set up, scale, and sustain RTM programs with confidence.

Contact us to learn how.