Portion of a test or procedure (containing both a technical and a professional component) that pertains to the use of the equipment, supplies, materials, and the operator (technician) that performs it but does not interpret the results (i.e., electrocardiograph [ECG] machine and technician, radiography machine and technician, microscope and technician). When billing using CPT codes, a service that is TC only should not be billed with a two-digit modifier. See also professional component (PC) .

Skills that may be acquired through education and experience and make an individual suitable for a job or activity.

Multidisciplinary field of policy analysis that studies the medical, social, ethical, and economic implications of the development, diffusion, and use of technologies. In support of national coverage determinations (NCDs), TA often focuses on the safety and efficacy of technologies. Each NCD includes a comprehensive TA process. For some NCDs, external TAs are requested through the Agency for Health Research and Quality (AHRQ). Also referred to as health care technology assessment (HTA) .