How To Use CPT Code 83655

CPT 83655 describes the measurement of lead levels in a patient 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 83655?

CPT 83655 can be used to measure the amount of lead in a patient specimen, typically blood. This test is performed by a lab analyst using a methodology such as graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). The lab analyst vaporizes the sample in a GFAA spectrometry instrument, and the atoms of the vaporized sample absorb light energy. The instrument quantifies the amount of lead present in the sample based on the light energy absorbed.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83655 is: ‘Lead; blood.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst collects a patient specimen, typically blood, for lead testing.
2. The specimen is prepared and analyzed using a methodology such as graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS).
3. The lab analyst vaporizes the sample in a GFAA spectrometry instrument with an electrically heated atomizer system, the graphite furnace.
4. The atoms of the vaporized sample absorb light energy, and the instrument quantifies the amount of lead present in the sample based on the light energy absorbed.
5. The lab analyst records the lead measurement and prepares a report for the healthcare provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 83655 is typically ordered by clinicians to evaluate for lead poisoning, which is commonly seen in industrial workers and individuals living in urban areas. Lead poisoning can be fatal as lead serves no function in the human body. The test is not limited to testing for a specific condition and can be used to check for lead exposure in general.

5. When to use CPT code 83655

CPT code 83655 should be used when a healthcare provider orders a lead test to measure the amount of lead in a patient’s blood specimen. It is appropriate to use this code when evaluating for lead poisoning or checking for lead exposure in general.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 83655, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s demographics and relevant medical history
• Date and time of specimen collection
• Methodology used for lead testing
• Lead measurement result
• Signature of the healthcare provider ordering the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 83655, ensure that the lead test is performed by a qualified lab analyst using an appropriate methodology. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding documentation and coding requirements for lead testing. Some payers may also separately reimburse for specimen collection using a code such as 36415, Collection of venous blood by venipuncture.

8. Historical information

CPT 83655 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider orders a lead test for a child living in an urban area to evaluate for lead exposure.
2. A clinician orders a lead test for an industrial worker to monitor their lead levels due to occupational exposure.
3. A healthcare provider orders a lead test for a patient with symptoms suggestive of lead poisoning.
4. A clinician orders a lead test for a pregnant woman to assess potential lead exposure that could affect the fetus.
5. A healthcare provider orders a lead test for a patient with a history of living in an older home with potential lead-based paint.
6. A clinician orders a lead test for a patient with developmental delays to evaluate for lead poisoning as a possible cause.
7. A healthcare provider orders a lead test for a patient with symptoms of fatigue and abdominal pain to rule out lead poisoning as a potential cause.
8. A clinician orders a lead test for a patient with a history of working in a battery manufacturing facility to monitor their lead levels.
9. A healthcare provider orders a lead test for a child with behavioral issues to assess for potential lead exposure.
10. A clinician orders a lead test for a patient with symptoms of anemia to evaluate for lead poisoning as a possible cause.