How To Use CPT Code 82374

CPT 82374 describes the measurement of carbon dioxide (bicarbonate) levels in the blood. 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 82374?

CPT 82374 can be used to measure the levels of carbon dioxide, also known as bicarbonate, in the blood. This test is typically performed by a lab analyst using spectrophotometric methodology, which measures the amount of light absorbed by the sample after a chemical reaction. The results of this test provide valuable information about the acid-base balance in the body.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82374 is: ‘Carbon dioxide (bicarbonate).’ This code is used to report the quantitative measurement of carbon dioxide levels in the blood, primarily in serum.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a blood sample, usually from the serum, to measure the carbon dioxide levels.
2. The sample is subjected to a spectrophotometric analysis, which measures the amount of light absorbed by the sample after a chemical reaction.
3. The results of the analysis provide quantitative data on the carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82374 is typically performed as part of an electrolyte panel or other chemistry panels. It is ordered by healthcare providers to assess the acid-base balance in the body and determine the levels of carbon dioxide or bicarbonate. The test is performed by a lab analyst using spectrophotometric methodology.

5. When to use CPT code 82374

CPT code 82374 should be used when a quantitative measurement of carbon dioxide levels in the blood is required. It is appropriate to use this code when the test is performed as a standalone procedure or as part of an electrolyte panel or other chemistry panels. However, if the test is performed as part of a panel, the panel code should be reported instead of CPT 82374.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 82374, the documentation should include:

• Indication for the test and the reason for ordering it
• Details of the methodology used for the analysis
• Date and time of the test
• Results of the analysis, including the carbon dioxide levels
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 82374, ensure that the test is performed by a qualified lab analyst using spectrophotometric methodology. If the test is performed as part of an electrolyte panel or other chemistry panels, report the appropriate panel code instead of CPT 82374. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding the reporting of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 82374 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst measuring the carbon dioxide levels in a patient’s blood as part of an electrolyte panel.
2. A healthcare provider ordering a standalone test to assess the acid-base balance in a patient’s body by measuring the carbon dioxide levels.
3. A lab analyst performing a spectrophotometric analysis to determine the bicarbonate levels in a blood sample.
4. A patient undergoing a carbon dioxide measurement test to monitor their acidosis-alkalosis balance.
5. A lab analyst using arterial blood to measure the carbon dioxide levels and assess the acid-base balance in a patient.
6. A healthcare provider ordering a carbon dioxide measurement test to evaluate the effectiveness of a patient’s respiratory function.
7. A lab analyst performing a carbon dioxide measurement test to diagnose and monitor a patient with a metabolic disorder.
8. A patient undergoing a carbon dioxide measurement test as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel to assess their overall health.
9. A healthcare provider ordering a carbon dioxide measurement test to evaluate a patient’s response to a specific treatment or medication.
10. A lab analyst measuring the carbon dioxide levels in a patient’s blood to assist in the diagnosis of an acid-base imbalance.