How To Use CPT Code 83970

CPT 83970 describes the measurement of parathyroid hormone (PTH) 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 83970?

CPT 83970 is used to measure the level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the blood. This test is performed to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland and assess the level of calcium in the body.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83970 is: ‘Parathormone (parathyroid hormone) test, quantitative.’

3. Procedure

1. A physician collects a blood sample from the patient who is fasting.
2. The blood sample is then analyzed using various assays, such as the intact PTH using double monoclonal antibody technique, nonradioactive assay, or assay of iPTH.
3. The results of the test indicate the level of PTH in the blood, which helps in evaluating the function of the parathyroid gland and assessing calcium levels.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 83970 is used when there is a need to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland and assess calcium levels in the body. This test is typically ordered for patients who may have disorders or conditions related to the parathyroid gland. The physician must determine the medical necessity of the test based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and physical examination.

5. When to use CPT code 83970

CPT code 83970 should be used when there is a need to measure the level of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the blood. This test is typically ordered to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland and assess calcium levels in the body. It is important to use this code only when the test is medically necessary and ordered by a physician.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 83970, the physician must document the following information:

• Reason for ordering the test, including the patient’s symptoms and medical history
• Type of assay used to measure PTH levels
• Date and time of the test
• Results of the test, including the level of PTH in the blood
• Physician’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 83970, ensure that the test is medically necessary and ordered by a physician. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement. CPT code 83970 should not be reported with other codes unless there are specific circumstances that warrant additional reporting.

8. Historical information

CPT code 83970 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 patient with symptoms of hypercalcemia undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland.
2. A patient with chronic kidney disease undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to assess calcium levels and monitor the progression of the disease.
3. A patient with osteoporosis undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland and assess bone health.
4. A patient with symptoms of hypoparathyroidism undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
5. A patient with a history of parathyroid surgery undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to monitor the function of the remaining parathyroid gland.
6. A patient with symptoms of hyperparathyroidism undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland and assess calcium levels.
7. A patient with vitamin D deficiency undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland and assess calcium metabolism.
8. A patient with symptoms of hypocalcemia undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland and assess calcium levels.
9. A patient with renal osteodystrophy undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to assess the function of the parathyroid gland and monitor the progression of the disease.
10. A patient with symptoms of hypercalcemia undergoes a parathyroid hormone test to evaluate the function of the parathyroid gland and assess calcium levels.