1. Six New ABA CPT Codes Are Coming in 2027
One of the biggest announcements is the introduction of six new and revised Adaptive Behavior Services CPT codes, approved by the CPT Editorial Panel in 2025. These new codes are designed to better reflect how ABA services are actually delivered today, including: * Additional technician support during treatment * BCBA-delivered treatment with analysis * New service categories that better separate different clinical activities The goal is to create more accurate billing options and improve documentation of medically necessary services. However, these codes are still proposed and won’t become official until they’re published in the 2027 CPT Professional Edition and finalized by CMS.
2. Carrier Pricing Continues
For many providers, this may be the most important update. CMS is proposing to continue carrier pricing for ABA CPT codes through 2027, including both existing codes and the six new codes. What does that mean? Instead of CMS assigning national payment rates, Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) will continue determining reimbursement amounts in their regions. In practical terms: * Reimbursement rates may still vary depending on where you practice. * Providers will continue working with individual payers and contractors rather than relying on standardized Medicare rates. * Payment negotiations remain just as important as ever.
3. Telehealth Coverage Looks Stable
There’s more encouraging news for providers who utilize telehealth. CMS proposes keeping the existing ABA CPT codes (97151–97158) on the permanent Medicare telehealth list for 2027. However, CMS did not specifically address whether the six new ABA codes will also qualify for telehealth coverage. The ABA Coding Coalition plans to formally request that these new codes receive permanent telehealth status before the rule is finalized.
4. Remember: This Is Still Only a Proposal
Nothing has been finalized yet. The proposed rule enters a 60-day public comment period, during which providers, organizations, and advocacy groups can submit feedback to CMS. The final Medicare Physician Fee Schedule is expected later this year, with any approved changes taking effect on January 1, 2027.
What This Means for ABA Practices
Although there aren’t immediate reimbursement increases for ABA services, these proposals suggest CMS recognizes that adaptive behavior services continue to evolve. Practice owners should begin preparing by: * Reviewing the upcoming CPT code changes. * Talking with billing teams and software vendors. * Watching for guidance from commercial insurers and Medicaid programs. * Following updates once the final rule is released later this year.
The Bottom Line
The proposed 2027 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule isn’t a complete overhaul for ABA providers, but it does lay the groundwork for important changes. New billing codes, continued telehealth support, and the extension of carrier pricing will all influence how ABA services are delivered and reimbursed in 2027. For providers, staying informed now will make the transition much smoother when the final rule takes effect. As always, we’ll continue monitoring the final CMS rule and break down what it means for ABA providers once it’s officially released.