How To Use CPT Code 38215

CPT 38215 describes the process of preparing hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for transplantation by reducing the plasma concentration and removing agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 38215?

CPT 38215 can be used to describe the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for transplantation. This involves reducing the plasma concentration and removing agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer from the HPC solution. The purpose of this procedure is to facilitate the transplantation process and minimize post-transplant complications.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 38215 is: ‘Transplant preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells; cell concentration in plasma, mononuclear, or buffy coat layer.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider harvests, preserves, and thaws the hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs).
2. The provider prepares the HPC solution for transplant by reducing the volume of plasma to minimize the risk of toxicity.
3. The provider removes agranulocytes, also known as mononuclear cells, along with the buffy coat layer formed by platelets and other white blood cells after centrifugation of the HPC solution.
4. The provider may use centrifugation, apheresis, or cell washers to separate cells and plasma from the rest of the HPC solution.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 38215 is used when the provider prepares hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for transplantation. This procedure is typically performed in the context of bone marrow or stem cell services/procedures. It is important to note that CPT codes 38207-38215 should not be reported in conjunction with codes 88182, 88184-88189.

5. When to use CPT code 38215

CPT code 38215 should be used when the provider is preparing hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for transplantation by reducing the plasma concentration and removing agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer. This code is specific to the cell concentration in plasma, mononuclear, or buffy coat layer.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 38215, the provider must document the following information:

• Details of the hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) preparation process
• Specific steps taken to reduce plasma concentration and remove agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or findings
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 38215, ensure that the procedure involves the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for transplantation. It is important to follow the guidelines and not report CPT codes 38207-38215 in conjunction with codes 88182, 88184-88189. Report this service only once per day.

8. Historical information

CPT 38215 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider prepares hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for transplantation by reducing the plasma concentration and removing agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer.
2. During the procedure, the provider uses centrifugation to separate cells and plasma from the rest of the HPC solution.
3. The provider performs the preparation of HPCs for transplant, ensuring the appropriate cell concentration in plasma, mononuclear, or buffy coat layer.
4. Using apheresis, the provider removes agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer from the HPC solution, preparing it for transplantation.
5. The provider prepares the HPC solution for transplant by reducing the volume of plasma and removing agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer.
6. During the procedure, the provider uses cell washers to separate cells and plasma from the rest of the HPC solution, ensuring the appropriate cell concentration in plasma, mononuclear, or buffy coat layer.
7. A provider performs the necessary steps to prepare hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for transplantation, including reducing the plasma concentration and removing agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer.
8. Using centrifugation, the provider separates cells and plasma from the rest of the HPC solution, preparing it for transplantation.
9. The provider prepares the HPC solution for transplant by reducing the plasma concentration and removing agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer, ensuring the appropriate cell concentration in plasma, mononuclear, or buffy coat layer.
10. During the procedure, the provider uses apheresis to remove agranulocytes and the buffy coat layer from the HPC solution, preparing it for transplantation.