HCPCS Level II modifier
Modifier SC
Modifier SC is a HCPCS Level II modifier. CMS describes it as: Medically necessary service or supply.
Source: CMS HCPCS Level II, October 2026 file dated September 23, 2026. Publisher page
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- Modifier
- SC
- Type
- HCPCS Level II modifier, maintained by CMS
- CMS description
- Medically necessary service or supply
- Claim form
- CMS-1500 item 24D, up to four modifiers per line. 837P SV101-3 to SV101-6.
- Guidance
- CMS HCPCS quarterly update
Related modifiers
- SDServices provided by registered nurse with specialized, highly technical home infusion training
- SBNurse midwife
- SEState and/or federally-funded programs/services
- SANurse practitioner rendering service in collaboration with a physician
- SFSecond opinion ordered by a professional review organization (PRO) per section 9401, p.l. 99-272 (100% reimbursement - no medicare deductible or coinsurance)
- RTRight side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
- SGAmbulatory surgical center (ASC) facility service
- RRRental (use the 'RR' modifier when DME is to be rented)
Related pages
Questions
What does modifier SC mean?
Modifier SC is a HCPCS Level II modifier. CMS describes it as: Medically necessary service or supply.
Is modifier SC a CPT or a HCPCS modifier?
SC is a HCPCS Level II modifier from the CMS quarterly HCPCS file. Two-digit numeric modifiers, such as 25 or 59, are CPT modifiers.
Where does modifier SC go on a claim?
On the CMS-1500 it goes in item 24D next to the procedure code. Each line holds up to four modifiers. On an 837P it goes in SV101-3 to SV101-6.
What denial comes back when a modifier is wrong?
A missing or mismatched modifier often comes back as CARC 4. A modifier that was not valid on the date of service comes back as CARC 182. A bundling edit the modifier should have bypassed comes back as CARC 97 or 236.