How To Use CPT Code 84591

CPT 84591 describes the measurement of vitamin levels in a patient’s blood or urine sample. 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 84591?

CPT 84591 is used to measure vitamin levels in a patient’s blood or urine sample. This code is specifically used for vitamins that do not have a more specific code available, such as B3 or B7. The test is performed by a lab analyst to determine if the patient has any deficiencies in their vitamin levels.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 84591 is: ‘Vitamin, not otherwise specified.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst receives a blood or urine sample from the patient.
2. The analyst performs the necessary technical steps to test the sample for vitamin deficiencies.
3. The test measures the levels of water-soluble vitamins (such as B and C) or fat-soluble vitamins (such as A, D, E, and K) in the sample.
4. If a deficiency is detected, the lab analyst reports the results to the healthcare provider.
5. The healthcare provider may then recommend changes in the patient’s diet or prescribe oral supplements to address the vitamin deficiency.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 84591 is used when a patient’s vitamin levels need to be measured to determine if there are any deficiencies. This test is typically ordered by a healthcare provider when there is a suspicion of a vitamin deficiency or as part of a routine check-up. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to test the blood or urine sample for vitamin levels.

5. When to use CPT code 84591

CPT code 84591 should be used when a healthcare provider orders a test to measure a patient’s vitamin levels. This code is specifically used for vitamins that do not have a more specific code available. It is important to note that this code should only be used for the measurement of vitamin levels and not for other laboratory tests or procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 84591, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The reason for ordering the test, such as suspicion of a vitamin deficiency or routine check-up
• The specific type of vitamin being measured, if available
• The date the test was performed
• The results of the test, including the patient’s vitamin levels
• Any recommendations or interventions made based on the test results
• The signature of the healthcare provider ordering the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 84591, ensure that the test is performed by a lab analyst to measure the patient’s vitamin levels. This code should only be reported for vitamins that do not have a more specific code available. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer for accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 84591 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a vitamin test to measure their vitamin B3 levels.
2. A healthcare provider orders a vitamin test to check a patient’s vitamin B7 levels.
3. A lab analyst performs a vitamin test to measure a patient’s vitamin C levels.
4. A patient’s vitamin A levels are measured through a vitamin test ordered by their healthcare provider.
5. A vitamin test is performed to measure a patient’s vitamin D levels.
6. A healthcare provider orders a vitamin test to check a patient’s vitamin E levels.
7. A lab analyst performs a vitamin test to measure a patient’s vitamin K levels.
8. A patient undergoes a vitamin test to measure their vitamin B6 levels.
9. A healthcare provider orders a vitamin test to check a patient’s vitamin B12 levels.
10. A lab analyst performs a vitamin test to measure a patient’s vitamin B5 levels.