How To Use CPT Code 80184

CPT code 80184 describes the analysis of phenobarbital levels in a patient’s specimen. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 80184?

CPT 80184 can be used to analyze the amount of phenobarbital present in a patient’s specimen. This code is used when a lab analyst performs the technical steps to measure the level of phenobarbital using methods such as enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 80184 is: ‘Phenobarbital; therapeutic drug assay.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a specimen, typically serum, from the patient.
2. The specimen is then analyzed using an immunoassay method, such as ELISA, to detect the presence of phenobarbital.
3. The lab analyst may perform various steps, including reacting the specimen with test antibodies, incubating the mixture, adding an agent to detect the antigen-antibody complex, and quantifying the result.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 80184 is used when a clinician orders the test to measure the level of phenobarbital in a patient’s specimen. This test is commonly ordered for patients who are taking phenobarbital as an anticonvulsant medication to ensure they are receiving the correct dose.

5. When to use CPT code 80184

CPT code 80184 should be used when a clinician orders the test to analyze the level of phenobarbital in a patient’s specimen. It is not limited to testing for a specific condition but is commonly used for patients taking phenobarbital for seizures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 80184, the clinician must document the following information:

• Reason for ordering the test and the patient’s diagnosis
• Details of the specimen collected, such as serum
• The method used for analysis, such as ELISA
• Date and time of the test
• Results of the test and any additional notes or observations
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 80184, ensure that the test is ordered by a clinician and performed by a lab analyst. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding billing for specimen collection, if applicable. CPT code 80184 should not be reported with other codes unless specified by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 80184 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A clinician orders CPT code 80184 to analyze the level of phenobarbital in a patient’s serum specimen to ensure the patient is receiving the appropriate dose of the anticonvulsant medication.
2. A lab analyst performs the technical steps to measure the phenobarbital level in a patient’s specimen using an immunoassay method, such as ELISA.
3. A clinician orders CPT code 80184 for a patient who is taking phenobarbital for seizures to monitor the medication’s effectiveness and adjust the dosage if necessary.
4. A lab analyst analyzes the phenobarbital level in a patient’s serum specimen to ensure the patient is within the therapeutic range for the anticonvulsant medication.
5. A clinician orders CPT code 80184 to confirm the presence of phenobarbital in a patient’s specimen before prescribing the medication for seizure management.
6. A lab analyst performs the technical steps to measure the phenobarbital level in a patient’s serum specimen to assist the clinician in determining the appropriate dosage for the anticonvulsant medication.
7. A clinician orders CPT code 80184 to monitor the phenobarbital level in a patient’s serum specimen over time to ensure the medication’s consistent therapeutic effect.
8. A lab analyst analyzes the phenobarbital level in a patient’s serum specimen to assess compliance with the prescribed dosage of the anticonvulsant medication.
9. A clinician orders CPT code 80184 to evaluate the phenobarbital level in a patient’s serum specimen as part of a comprehensive assessment of their anticonvulsant therapy.
10. A lab analyst performs the technical steps to measure the phenobarbital level in a patient’s serum specimen to assist the clinician in adjusting the dosage for optimal seizure control.