How To Use CPT Code 85049

CPT 85049 describes the analysis of platelets in whole blood samples using automated cell counters. 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 85049?

CPT 85049 can be used to describe the analysis of platelets in whole blood samples using automated cell counters. This code is used when a healthcare professional performs a technical lab test to determine the platelet count in a patient’s blood.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 85049 is: ‘Blood count; platelet, automated.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare professional receives a whole blood sample from the patient.
2. The sample is inspected to ensure an adequate quantity and fluidity.
3. The sample is then placed on an automated hematologic analyzer.
4. The analyzer uses electrical impedance or flow cytometry to count and size the platelets in the sample.
5. The results are reviewed by the healthcare professional for acceptability.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 85049 is used when a healthcare professional analyzes platelets in whole blood samples using automated cell counters. This test is typically performed to assess bleeding disorders, monitor the effects of antineoplastic treatments, and evaluate presurgical coagulation status. It can be used for patients with various conditions that may affect platelet counts, such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura, viral infections, cancer, late-term pregnancy, and medication use.

5. When to use CPT code 85049

CPT code 85049 should be used when a healthcare professional performs an automated platelet count on a whole blood sample. It is appropriate to bill this code when the analysis is necessary for diagnostic or monitoring purposes. However, it should not be used for testing related to a specific condition.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 85049, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s name and identification
• Date and time of the analysis
• Results of the platelet count
• Any relevant clinical information or indication for the test
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the analysis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 85049, ensure that the analysis is performed by a qualified healthcare professional using automated cell counters. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and appropriate reimbursement. CPT code 85049 should not be reported with other codes unless there are specific circumstances that warrant additional codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 85049 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A laboratory technician analyzing the platelet count in a whole blood sample from a patient with suspected bleeding disorder.
2. A hematologist performing an automated platelet count to monitor the effects of antineoplastic treatments in a cancer patient.
3. A surgeon requesting a presurgical coagulation status evaluation, including an automated platelet count, for a patient scheduled for a major operation.
4. An obstetrician ordering an automated platelet count for a pregnant patient in the late term to assess her coagulation status.
5. A primary care physician requesting an automated platelet count to evaluate the effects of a medication on a patient’s platelet count.
6. A hematologist analyzing the platelet count in a whole blood sample from a patient with suspected immune thrombocytopenic purpura.
7. A laboratory technician performing an automated platelet count as part of a routine blood count for a patient undergoing a general health check-up.
8. An oncologist monitoring the platelet count of a patient receiving chemotherapy to assess the treatment’s impact on blood clotting.
9. A hematologist analyzing the platelet count in a whole blood sample from a patient with a viral infection to evaluate the effects on platelet production.
10. A primary care physician ordering an automated platelet count to assess the platelet count of a patient on long-term oral contraceptive use.