How To Use CPT Code 0246U

CPT 0246U describes a specific laboratory test called Red blood cell antigen typing, DNA, genotyping of at least 16 blood groups with phenotype prediction of at least 51 red blood cell antigens. This article will provide an overview of the code, including its official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0246U?

CPT 0246U is a unique code that represents a laboratory test known as Red blood cell antigen typing, DNA, genotyping of at least 16 blood groups with phenotype prediction of at least 51 red blood cell antigens. This test is performed to help clinicians minimize adverse blood-type incompatibility reactions in blood transfusions or in pregnancy and newborns. It involves analyzing the patient’s DNA to evaluate genes associated with various blood groups and red blood cell antigens.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0246U is: ‘Red blood cell antigen typing, DNA, genotyping of at least 16 blood groups with phenotype prediction of at least 51 red blood cell antigens.’

3. Procedure

1. A lab analyst collects a patient’s blood specimen to perform a gene analysis panel.
2. The gene analysis panel evaluates genes for at least 16 blood groups, including ABO and Rh, and predicts the phenotype of at least 51 red blood cell antigens.
3. The test uses a DNA sequencing method to characterize the blood type antigens and allows for precise matching of compatible blood for transfusion or evaluation of maternal/fetal blood type incompatibility.
4. The test results help clinicians minimize adverse hemolytic reactions that can occur due to blood-type incompatibility.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0246U is typically ordered for patients receiving blood transfusions, especially those at increased risk of adverse hemolytic reactions. It can also be used to investigate adverse reactions in pregnancy and newborns. The test evaluates genes associated with at least 16 blood groups and predicts the phenotype of at least 51 red blood cell antigens, providing more comprehensive information compared to traditional serology typing methods.

5. When to use CPT code 0246U

CPT code 0246U should be used when a clinician orders the specific laboratory test for Red blood cell antigen typing, DNA, genotyping of at least 16 blood groups with phenotype prediction of at least 51 red blood cell antigens. It is important to note that this code is specific to the PrecisionBlood™ test from San Diego Blood Bank and should not be reported using any other CPT code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0246U, the following documentation is necessary:

• Indication for the test, such as the need to evaluate blood-type compatibility or investigate adverse reactions
• Details of the specific laboratory test performed, including the name of the test (PrecisionBlood™), the manufacturer (San Diego Blood Bank), and the specific gene analysis panel used
• Date of service when the test was performed
• Results of the test, including the evaluation of genes for at least 16 blood groups and the prediction of the phenotype of at least 51 red blood cell antigens
• Signature of the lab analyst who performed the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0246U, it is important to ensure that the test was performed using the PrecisionBlood™ test from San Diego Blood Bank. Only report one unit of this code for a single specimen analyzed on a single date of service. Some payers may also provide separate reimbursement for the collection of the specimen, so it is advisable to check with the appropriate payer for their specific guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0246U was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on April 1, 2021. As a relatively new code, there have been no updates or changes since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoing a blood transfusion receives the PrecisionBlood™ test to ensure compatibility and minimize adverse reactions.
2. A pregnant individual with a history of blood-type incompatibility receives the PrecisionBlood™ test to evaluate the risk of adverse reactions in the current pregnancy.
3. A newborn with symptoms of hemolytic anemia undergoes the PrecisionBlood™ test to identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
4. A patient with a complex medical history and multiple blood transfusions undergoes the PrecisionBlood™ test to assess the risk of adverse reactions and ensure safe transfusions.
5. A clinician orders the PrecisionBlood™ test for a patient with a suspected blood-type discrepancy to confirm the correct blood type and prevent potential complications.
6. A patient with a known history of red blood cell antigen sensitization receives the PrecisionBlood™ test to identify compatible blood for future transfusions.
7. A clinician orders the PrecisionBlood™ test for a patient with a rare blood group to facilitate the identification of compatible blood donors.
8. A pregnant individual with a history of Rh incompatibility receives the PrecisionBlood™ test to assess the risk of hemolytic disease of the newborn.
9. A patient with a suspected adverse reaction to a previous blood transfusion undergoes the PrecisionBlood™ test to investigate the cause and prevent future complications.
10. A clinician orders the PrecisionBlood™ test for a patient with a family history of blood-type incompatibility to assess the risk of adverse reactions in future pregnancies.