How To Use CPT Code 95044

CPT 95044 describes the procedure for patch or application tests to determine possible allergic reactions. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 95044?

CPT 95044 is used to describe the patch or application tests performed by a healthcare provider to identify potential allergic reactions in a patient. These tests involve applying a group of related test substances to a labeled area on the patient’s skin, typically on the upper back. The patches are left on for at least 48 hours, and the provider examines the skin to determine if there is an allergic reaction to any of the substances.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 95044 is: ‘Patch or application test(s) (specify number of tests).’ This code is used to report the performance of patch or application tests to identify allergic reactions in patients.

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider begins by labeling the areas on the patient’s skin where the patch testing will be performed.
2. Next, a patch containing a group of related test substances is applied to the labeled area, usually on the upper back.
3. The patches are left on the patient’s skin for a minimum of 48 hours.
4. After 48 hours, the healthcare provider removes the patches and carefully examines the patient’s skin for any signs of an allergic reaction.
5. The provider documents the patient’s allergic reaction to one or multiple substances in the patch and specifies the number of tests performed in the report.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 95044 is used for patients who require patch or application tests to identify potential allergic reactions. These tests are typically performed when there is a suspicion of allergies or to confirm specific allergens that may be causing symptoms in the patient. The healthcare provider must use a group of related test substances, and the number of tests performed should be specified when reporting the code.

5. When to use CPT code 95044

CPT code 95044 should be used when a healthcare provider performs patch or application tests to identify potential allergic reactions in a patient. It is important to note that this code should not be used for other types of allergy testing procedures, as there are specific codes available for those procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

When reporting CPT code 95044, the healthcare provider must ensure that the following information is documented:

• The specific test substances used in the patch
• The location on the patient’s skin where the patch was applied
• The duration of time the patches were left on the patient’s skin
• The patient’s allergic reaction to any of the substances in the patch
• The number of tests performed

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 95044, it is important to follow the appropriate guidelines. This code should be reported for each patch or application test performed, and the number of tests should be specified. It is also important to ensure that CPT code 95044 is not reported with other codes that may overlap or duplicate the services provided.

8. Historical information

CPT code 95044 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A dermatologist performing patch tests on a patient to identify potential allergic reactions to various substances.
2. An allergist applying a patch containing different test substances to a patient’s skin to determine if they have an allergic reaction.
3. A pediatrician performing patch tests on a child to identify potential allergens causing their skin rash.
4. A nurse practitioner conducting patch tests on a patient to determine if they have any allergies to specific substances.
5. A dermatology resident performing patch tests on a patient with suspected contact dermatitis to identify the allergen causing their skin irritation.
6. An allergist applying a patch containing different test substances to a patient’s back to determine if they have an allergic reaction to any of them.
7. A physician assistant performing patch tests on a patient to identify potential allergens causing their respiratory symptoms.
8. A dermatologist conducting patch tests on a patient to determine if they have any allergies to specific chemicals used in their workplace.
9. An allergist applying a patch containing various test substances to a patient’s skin to identify potential allergic reactions.
10. A nurse practitioner performing patch tests on a patient to determine if they have any allergies to specific medications.