How To Use CPT Code 95024

CPT 95024 describes the procedure for intracutaneous (intradermal) tests with allergenic extracts, immediate type reaction, including test interpretation and report, specifying the number of tests. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 95024?

CPT 95024 can be used to describe the procedure for intracutaneous (intradermal) tests with allergenic extracts, immediate type reaction. These tests are performed to determine if a patient has an immediate allergic response to specific substances. The provider introduces small amounts of different allergens into the skin through intracutaneous injections and then visually checks for any visible allergic reactions. The results are interpreted and a report is written, specifying the number of tests conducted.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 95024 is: ‘Intracutaneous (intradermal) tests with allergenic extracts, immediate type reaction, including test interpretation and report, specify number of tests.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider introduces allergenic extracts into the skin through intracutaneous injections.
2. After a predetermined interval of time, typically 15 minutes, the area is visually checked for any visible allergic reactions.
3. The provider interprets the results of the tests.
4. A report is written, specifying the number of tests conducted and the findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 95024 is used for patients who require intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to determine immediate allergic reactions. These tests are typically performed on patients suspected of having allergies to specific substances. The provider must be able to interpret the results and write a report specifying the number of tests conducted.

5. When to use CPT code 95024

CPT code 95024 should be used when a provider performs intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to determine immediate allergic reactions. It is important to note that this code is specifically for immediate type reactions and should not be used for delayed-reaction testing. Additionally, percutaneous tests should be reported with a different code, such as CPT code 95004.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 95024, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s suspected allergies and the need for intracutaneous testing
• Specific allergenic extracts used for the tests
• Date and time of the tests
• Results of the tests and interpretation by the provider
• Report specifying the number of tests conducted

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 95024, ensure that the provider performs intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts and provides test interpretation and a report specifying the number of tests conducted. It is important to follow the guidelines and not report this code for delayed-reaction testing or percutaneous tests. Additionally, consider any modifiers that may be required for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 95024 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been a few changes to the code over the years, including updates to the description and the addition of test interpretation and report by a physician.

9. Examples

1. A dermatologist performing intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to determine immediate allergic reactions to various substances, such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites.
2. An allergist conducting intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to identify immediate allergic reactions in a patient suspected of having food allergies.
3. A pediatrician performing intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to diagnose immediate allergic reactions in a child with suspected environmental allergies.
4. An immunologist conducting intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to determine immediate allergic reactions in a patient with suspected drug allergies.
5. A primary care physician performing intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to identify immediate allergic reactions in a patient with suspected insect sting allergies.
6. An otolaryngologist conducting intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to diagnose immediate allergic reactions in a patient with suspected allergies to airborne substances.
7. An internist performing intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to determine immediate allergic reactions in a patient with suspected latex allergies.
8. A pulmonologist conducting intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to identify immediate allergic reactions in a patient with suspected allergies to mold and fungi.
9. An allergist performing intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to diagnose immediate allergic reactions in a patient with suspected allergies to medications.
10. A family physician conducting intracutaneous tests with allergenic extracts to determine immediate allergic reactions in a patient with suspected allergies to animal dander.