The 2026 RVU calculation workflow starts with a CPT or HCPCS code, selects the correct practice expense setting, applies GPCI component indexes, and then multiplies adjusted total RVU by the applicable 2026 conversion factor.
Choose the CPT code
The CPT or HCPCS code determines the base work, practice expense, and malpractice RVU components. Start by confirming the code and descriptor before comparing payment, because adjacent codes can differ materially. RVUinUSA treats the code as a payment input and does not replace coding, documentation, or payer-policy review.
- Search by code or descriptor.
- Review related CPT codes when the service level is uncertain.
- Keep coding review separate from payment estimation.
Move from explanation to calculation
Use the article to understand the term, then run the calculator with explicit CPT, setting, locality, and QPP assumptions.
Select facility or non-facility PE RVU
Practice expense RVU can change by site of service. For office-based estimates, use the non-facility PE RVU; for hospital or facility estimates, use the facility PE RVU. This setting choice can move total RVU even when work RVU and malpractice RVU stay unchanged.
- Use non-facility for office assumptions.
- Use facility when the facility PE value applies.
- Label the setting in copied or exported results.
Apply GPCI and conversion factor
GPCI is applied separately to work, practice expense, and malpractice components. After adjusted total RVU is calculated, multiply by the relevant 2026 conversion factor: $33.4009 for non-QPP or $33.5675 for QPP/APM when participant status applies.
- Apply Work GPCI to work RVU.
- Apply PE GPCI to the selected PE RVU.
- Use QPP only when participation status is confirmed.