2025 CPT code 85048
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Pathology and Laboratory - Automated Cell Counts Hematology and Coagulation Procedures Feed
Automated white blood cell (WBC) count.
Modifiers 90 (Reference (Outside) Laboratory), 91 (Repeat Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory Test), and others may be applicable depending on the circumstances of service. Consult the CPT manual for modifier guidelines.
Medical necessity is established when the ordering physician determines that the WBC count is clinically indicated based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and physical examination findings.Examples include investigating infection, anemia, leukemia, or other hematologic disorders.
The clinical responsibility lies with the laboratory personnel who perform the test and report the results to the ordering physician.The physician orders the test based on the patient's clinical presentation and medical history to aid in diagnosis.
In simple words: This lab test measures the number of white blood cells in your blood. White blood cells help fight infection. The test uses a machine to quickly count the cells.A high or low count might suggest an infection, anemia, or other health issue.
This CPT code represents an automated white blood cell (WBC) count, a hematology test that uses an automated system to determine the number of WBCs in a blood sample.The procedure involves preparing a blood smear, staining it, and analyzing it using automated equipment to quantify the WBC count. This test is frequently ordered as part of a complete blood count (CBC) but can be billed separately under specific circumstances.
Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms suggestive of an infection. The physician orders a CBC, which includes code 85048 (automated WBC count), to evaluate the patient's white blood cell count., A patient undergoing cancer treatment has regular monitoring of their blood counts.Code 85048 is used to report the automated WBC count as part of the routine lab work., A patient presents with fatigue and weakness.The physician orders code 85048, along with other blood tests, to investigate potential causes such as anemia or bone marrow disorders. In this case, a complete blood count (CBC) would likely include the automated WBC count, leading to potential bundling considerations.
* Physician order specifying the test.* Properly labeled and collected blood sample.* Lab report showing WBC count and relevant units.* Patient demographics.* Date of service.
** Accurate reporting of code 85048 requires careful consideration of the context of the testing, whether a complete blood count was also ordered, and whether the test was performed in an automated or manual fashion.Reviewing payer-specific guidelines is crucial to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.
- Revenue Code: T1D (LAB TESTS - BLOOD COUNTS)
- RVU: RVUs vary based on geographic location, facility type, and payer.Consult relevant fee schedules and local payment rates for accurate values.
- Global Days: Not applicable.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
- Fee Schedule: Historical fee schedule data is available through various resources such as CMS and private payer websites. These values will depend on year, payer, and location.
- Specialties:Hematology, Oncology, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital (Inpatient and Outpatient), Clinical Laboratory