How To Use CPT Code 83026

CPT 83026 describes the non-automated determination of hemoglobin using a copper sulfate method. 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 83026?

CPT 83026 can be used to describe the non-automated determination of hemoglobin using a copper sulfate method. This code is used when a lab analyst performs a manual technique to estimate or quantitate the hemoglobin content in a blood sample. The analyst utilizes a copper sulfate solution of a specific gravity and observes whether the sample drop sinks to the bottom or not.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83026 is: ‘Hemoglobin; by copper sulfate method, non-automated.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a blood sample from a finger, ear lobe, or venous sample.
2. The analyst prepares a copper sulfate solution of a specific gravity.
3. A drop of the blood sample is added to the copper sulfate solution.
4. The analyst observes whether the drop sinks to the bottom or not.
5. The specific gravity of the copper sulfate solution determines the hemoglobin level in the blood sample.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 83026 is used when a lab analyst performs a non-automated determination of hemoglobin using a copper sulfate method. This technique is typically used to screen blood donors or estimate the hemoglobin level in a blood sample. However, more precise and reliable methods are now available for measuring hemoglobin, making this test less commonly used in clinical practice.

5. When to use CPT code 83026

CPT code 83026 should be used when a lab analyst performs a non-automated determination of hemoglobin using a copper sulfate method. It is important to note that this test is not currently in general use due to the availability of more precise and reliable techniques for measuring hemoglobin.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 83026, the documentation should include:

• Details of the specific gravity of the copper sulfate solution used
• Observation of whether the blood sample drop sinks to the bottom or not
• Date and time of the test
• Signature of the lab analyst performing the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 83026, ensure that the test is performed using the non-automated copper sulfate method. It is important to note that this test is not commonly used in clinical practice, and more precise and reliable methods are available for measuring hemoglobin. Therefore, it is essential to check with payers regarding their coverage and reimbursement policies for this specific test.

8. Historical information

CPT 83026 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 lab analyst performs a non-automated determination of hemoglobin using the copper sulfate method to screen a blood donor.
2. A lab analyst estimates the hemoglobin level in a blood sample using the copper sulfate method for a patient with suspected anemia.
3. A lab analyst utilizes the copper sulfate method to measure the hemoglobin level in a blood sample from a patient before a surgical procedure.
4. A lab analyst performs a non-automated determination of hemoglobin using the copper sulfate method to monitor the hemoglobin levels of a patient undergoing chemotherapy.
5. A lab analyst uses the copper sulfate method to estimate the hemoglobin level in a blood sample from a patient with a suspected hemoglobinopathy.
6. A lab analyst performs a non-automated determination of hemoglobin using the copper sulfate method to assess the hemoglobin levels of a patient with a history of blood disorders.
7. A lab analyst utilizes the copper sulfate method to measure the hemoglobin level in a blood sample from a patient with a suspected iron deficiency.
8. A lab analyst performs a non-automated determination of hemoglobin using the copper sulfate method to screen a blood sample for potential blood transfusion.
9. A lab analyst estimates the hemoglobin level in a blood sample using the copper sulfate method for a patient with symptoms of fatigue and weakness.
10. A lab analyst utilizes the copper sulfate method to measure the hemoglobin level in a blood sample from a patient with a suspected hemolytic disorder.