In 2026, AI-assisted imaging moved significantly from provisional / experimental to more established:
New Category I CPT codes are now in place for AI tools (instead of many being under Category III). Examples include tools that detect lung nodules on chest CTs, flag stroke signs on brain scans, or automatically compare prior mammograms.
Because they are Category I, these codes now have assigned RVUs (Relative Value Units), which improves the likelihood of reimbursement from payers.
Documentation must distinguish how the AI output was used in the final interpretation (payers may audit this).
