How To Use CPT Code 83992

CPT 83992 describes the measurement of phencyclidine (PCP) levels in a patient’s urine or blood sample. This article will cover the description, official terminology, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 83992?

CPT 83992 can be used to measure the levels of phencyclidine (PCP) in a patient’s urine or blood sample. PCP is a potent street drug that is commonly abused. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to accurately quantitate the exact level of PCP using a methodology called immunoassay. This test is typically ordered in acute medical situations where PCP is present or suspected, as it can cause emergent medical conditions that may be life-threatening.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 83992 is: ‘Phencyclidine (PCP).’ This code is used to measure the levels of PCP in a patient’s urine or blood sample.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst receives a urine or blood sample from the patient.
2. The analyst performs an immunoassay, which involves using an antigen-antibody response to accurately measure the PCP levels in the sample.
3. The exact level of PCP is quantitated and reported to the healthcare provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 83992 is used when there is a need to measure the levels of PCP in a patient’s urine or blood sample. This test is typically ordered in acute medical situations where PCP is present or suspected, as it is a frequent cause of emergent medical conditions that may lead to death.

5. When to use CPT code 83992

CPT code 83992 should be used when there is a need to measure the levels of PCP in a patient’s urine or blood sample. It is appropriate to use this code when PCP is present or suspected in acute medical situations.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 83992, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for ordering the PCP level measurement
• Type of sample (urine or blood)
• Date and time of sample collection
• Results of the PCP level measurement
• Signature of the healthcare provider ordering the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 83992, ensure that the test is performed to measure the levels of PCP in a patient’s urine or blood sample. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting this code with other codes. However, it is important to follow the appropriate coding and billing guidelines of the healthcare facility or payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 83992 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 patient presents to the emergency department with altered mental status, and PCP intoxication is suspected. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to confirm the presence of the drug.
2. A patient with a history of PCP abuse is admitted to the hospital with severe agitation and psychosis. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to assess the severity of PCP intoxication.
3. A patient involved in a motor vehicle accident is brought to the emergency department, and PCP use is suspected. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to determine if the patient was under the influence of the drug at the time of the accident.
4. A pregnant patient with a history of PCP abuse is receiving prenatal care. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to monitor the patient’s drug use during pregnancy.
5. A patient with a known PCP addiction is undergoing substance abuse treatment. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to assess the patient’s progress in recovery.
6. A patient with a history of PCP abuse is being evaluated for a potential job opportunity that requires drug testing. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to determine if the patient is currently using the drug.
7. A patient with a suspected PCP overdose is brought to the emergency department. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to guide the appropriate treatment and management of the overdose.
8. A patient with a history of PCP abuse is participating in a drug rehabilitation program. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to monitor the patient’s compliance with the program.
9. A patient with a known PCP addiction is undergoing outpatient counseling. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to assess the patient’s abstinence from the drug.
10. A patient with a history of PCP abuse is enrolled in a clinical research study on substance abuse. The healthcare provider orders a PCP level measurement to monitor the patient’s response to the study intervention.