2025 CPT code 36591
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Cardiovascular System Feed
Collection of blood specimen from a completely implantable venous access device.
Modifiers are applicable. Modifier 59 may be necessary to indicate a distinct procedural service. Modifier 76 can be used for a repeat procedure by the same physician. Modifier 77 is for a repeat procedure by a different physician.
Medical necessity should be supported by the reason for the blood draw, such as monitoring therapy, diagnosing a condition, or evaluating treatment effectiveness.
The clinician (physician, nurse, or trained technician) preps the patient, applies antiseptic, accesses the port with a needle, withdraws the blood sample, and flushes the port with heparin.
In simple words: Drawing a blood sample from a port (a small device implanted under the skin) used for giving medicine or taking blood.
This code describes the process of collecting a blood sample from a fully implanted venous access device, such as a Port-a-Cath or MediPort.It involves accessing the device through the skin, withdrawing the blood sample, and flushing the device with a heparin solution to maintain patency and prevent clotting.
Example 1: A patient with a Port-a-Cath for chemotherapy needs routine blood work monitoring., A patient with a MediPort requires a blood sample for diagnostic testing due to an infection., A patient receiving long-term intravenous nutrition through an implanted port requires frequent blood draws to monitor electrolyte levels.
Documentation should include: date of the procedure, type and location of the implanted venous access device, amount of blood collected, any complications, and confirmation of heparin flush. If there were difficulties accessing the port, document attempts and resolutions.
** Code 36591 represents a “packaged” service under certain circumstances.It is often bundled into other procedures, such as chemotherapy administration or other evaluations where blood collection is a standard component. Check with specific payers for reimbursement rules. When billed, code 36591 should only include the blood draw itself. Associated laboratory tests are billed separately.
- Revenue Code: P6C (MINOR PROCEDURES - OTHER)
- Global Days: 0
- Payment Status: Packaged (may be reimbursed separately under specific circumstances, see additional notes)
- Modifier TC rule: No TC modifier applies.
- Fee Schedule: Consult the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) for historical payment rates.
- Specialties:Hematology/Oncology, Interventional Radiology, General Surgery
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Other Place of Service (depending on the clinical setting)