How To Use CPT Code 83020

CPT 83020 describes the process of hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 83020?

CPT 83020 is used to describe the process of hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis. This test is performed by a lab analyst to record and calculate the different fractions and variants of hemoglobin in a whole blood sample. The electrophoresis apparatus separates the normal fractions and abnormal hemoglobin variants on a gel medium, allowing for their measurement and calculation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83020 is: ‘Hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation; electrophoresis (eg, A2, S, C, and/or F).’ This code specifically refers to the process of electrophoresis to separate and quantify the different fractions and variants of hemoglobin in a blood sample.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to record, quantitate, and calculate the different fractions and variants of hemoglobin in a whole blood sample.
2. An electrophoresis apparatus is used to fractionate, or separate, the normal fractions and abnormal hemoglobin variants on a gel medium.
3. The hemoglobin particles migrate in an electric field, allowing the instrument to record and calculate them.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis is primarily ordered when there is evidence of an abnormal hemoglobin disorder, either through anemia or family history. This test helps clinicians identify and diagnose conditions such as thalassemia, where there is a lowered amount of hemoglobin and a decreased number of red blood cells compared to normal.

5. When to use CPT code 83020

CPT code 83020 should be used when a clinician orders hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis to assess and diagnose abnormal hemoglobin disorders. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to the process of electrophoresis and should not be used for other methods of hemoglobin fractionation, such as chromatography.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 83020, the documentation should include:

• Patient’s symptoms or family history indicating the need for hemoglobin fractionation
• Details of the electrophoresis procedure, including the gel medium used
• Results of the fractionation and quantitation, including the different hemoglobin fractions and variants identified
• Interpretation of the results and any additional recommendations or follow-up required

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 83020, ensure that the procedure performed is hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis. This code should not be reported with other codes for different methods of hemoglobin fractionation. It is also important to note that some payers may separately reimburse for specimen collection using a venipuncture code, such as 36415.

8. Historical information

CPT code 83020 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 clinician orders hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis for a patient with suspected thalassemia based on their symptoms and family history.
2. A patient presents with anemia, and the clinician orders hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis to identify any abnormal hemoglobin variants.
3. A newborn is screened for abnormal hemoglobin disorders, and the clinician orders hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis to assess their hemoglobin fractions.
4. A patient with a family history of abnormal hemoglobin disorders undergoes hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis to determine their risk of inheriting the condition.
5. A clinician suspects an abnormal hemoglobin disorder in a patient with symptoms of fatigue and pallor, and orders hemoglobin fractionation and quantitation through electrophoresis for diagnosis.