© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 91303 refers to a specific vaccine designed to provide immunity against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is responsible for the disease known as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This vaccine is classified as a DNA vaccine that utilizes a viral vector approach, specifically employing a non-replicating human adenovirus type 26 (Ad26) as the delivery mechanism. The adenovirus vector is harmless and serves to transport the genetic material encoding the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus into the host's cells. Upon administration via intramuscular injection, the vaccine introduces the genetic instructions for the spike protein, prompting the body to produce copies of this protein. The immune system identifies these spike proteins as foreign entities, which triggers an immune response that includes the production of antibodies and the formation of immunological memory. This process is crucial for preparing the immune system to recognize and combat the actual virus if the individual is exposed in the future. It is important to note that this code specifically reports the supply of the Johnson and Johnson’s Janssen single-dose vaccine and its booster for individuals aged 18 years and older. The administration of the vaccine itself is documented separately using the appropriate administration code, which varies based on the dosage given.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The CPT® Code 91303 is indicated for the vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The vaccine is specifically recommended for individuals aged 18 years and older to provide protection against the potentially severe and life-threatening effects of COVID-19.
The administration of the vaccine involves several key procedural steps that ensure proper delivery and effectiveness. First, the healthcare provider prepares the vaccine for administration by ensuring that it is at the appropriate temperature and that the vial is properly shaken to mix the contents. Next, the provider selects an appropriate site for the intramuscular injection, typically in the deltoid muscle of the upper arm. The skin at the injection site is then cleaned with an antiseptic wipe to reduce the risk of infection. Following this, the provider draws the vaccine into a syringe, ensuring that the correct dosage of 0.5 mL is administered. The injection is then given intramuscularly, and the provider may apply gentle pressure to the site after the needle is withdrawn. Finally, the patient is monitored for a brief period post-injection to observe for any immediate adverse reactions, and they are provided with information regarding potential side effects and the importance of follow-up doses if applicable.
After the administration of the vaccine, patients are typically advised to remain at the healthcare facility for a short period to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions, such as allergic responses. It is common for patients to experience mild side effects, including soreness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, or mild fever, which usually resolve within a few days. Patients should be informed about the importance of reporting any unusual or severe reactions to their healthcare provider. Additionally, individuals may receive guidance on follow-up appointments for booster doses if required, as well as recommendations for continuing to practice preventive measures against COVID-19, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distancing, especially in high-risk environments.
| Short Descr | SARSCOV2 VAC AD26 .5ML IM | Medium Descr | SARSCOV2 VACCINE AD26 5X1010VP/0.5ML IM USE | Long Descr | Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]) vaccine, DNA, spike protein, adenovirus type 26 (Ad26) vector, preservative free, 5x1010 viral particles/0.5 mL dosage, for intramuscular use | Status Code | Not Valid for Medicare Purposes | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Non-Covered Service, not paid under OPPS | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | none | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. |
| Q6 | Service furnished under a fee-for-time compensation arrangement by a substitute physician or by a substitute physical therapist furnishing outpatient physical therapy services in a health professional shortage area, a medically underserved area, or a rural area |
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Action
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Notes
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| 2023-11-01 | Deleted | Code deleted. See 91318, 91319, 91320, 91321, 91322. |
| 2023-11-01 | Deleted | First appearance of deletion in codebook. |
| 2023-06-01 | Note | This code is no longer authorized for use in the United States |
| 2023-06-01 | Note | These codes (included in the guidelines) are no longer authorized for use in the United States: 0031A & 0034A). |
| 2023-01-01 | Note | First appearance of guideline change(s) in codebook. |
| 2023-01-01 | Deleted | First appearance of code deletion in codebook. |
| 2022-08-31 | Note | Changes made to vaccine dosing information, & patient age (18 yrs and older). |
| 2022-01-01 | Added | First appearance in codebook |
| 2022-01-01 | Note | Grammar correction |
| 2022-01-01 | Note | Grammatical correction. |
| 2022-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| 2021-10-20 | Note | AMA guideline changed to include 0034A. Published to website 2021-10-27. Effective retroactively to 2022-10-20. |
| 2021-02-27 | Note | AMA Guideline changed. 0031A received FDA approval. |
| 2021-02-27 | Added | FDA approval received. |
| 2021-01-19 | Added | Published on AMA website. Effective upon receiving Emergency Use Authorization or approval from the Food and Drug Administration. |
| 2021-01-19 | Note | AMA guideline code 0031A published to website. Effective upon receiving emergency Use Authorization or approval from the FDA. |
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