Summary & Overview
CPT 0193U: Navigator JR Sequencing for Junior Blood Group Antigens
CPT code 0193U denotes a Proprietary Laboratory Analyses (PLA) test — the Navigator JR Sequencing assay from Grifols Immunohematology Center — designed to detect Junior (JR) blood group antigens via analysis of specific gene sequences. This specialized genetic sequencing test has clinical relevance across transfusion medicine, organ transplantation, and perinatal care by helping to identify potential blood–type incompatibilities that can lead to adverse reactions.
Key payers discussed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a national-level overview of the code’s clinical context and why the test matters for patient safety in procedures involving blood or organ products. The publication outlines typical sites of service and service type, summarizes common billing modifiers and associated administrative considerations, and highlights coding-specific details tied to PLA status. Where specific benchmark or coverage details are unavailable, the report notes the absence of input data rather than inferring policy. The content is intended to inform coding professionals, laboratory administrators, and payers about the clinical purpose and billing identity of CPT code 0193U and to guide further review of payer-specific coverage and reimbursement policies.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 0193U is a Proprietary Laboratory Analyses (PLA) code for the Navigator JR Sequencing test from Grifols Immunohematology Center. The test analyzes specific gene sequences to identify Junior (JR) blood group antigens, information that can help minimize adverse blood–type incompatibility reactions in blood transfusions, organ transplants, and in pregnancy and newborns.
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Service type: Genetic sequencing assay for blood group antigen identification
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Typical site of service: Clinical laboratory using a blood specimen
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is an adult or newborn with a history of transfusion reactions, alloimmunization, organ transplant planning, or a pregnant patient with an identified antibody where JR (Junior) blood group antigen status could affect transfusion compatibility and hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). The clinical workflow begins when a treating physician, transfusion medicine specialist, obstetrician, neonatologist, or surgeon requests extended molecular antigen typing. A blood specimen (commonly whole blood or EDTA tube) is collected and sent to Grifols Immunohematology Center. The laboratory performs the Navigator JR Sequencing test (reportable with 0193U) to analyze the specific gene sequences that determine JR blood group antigen expression. Results are returned to the ordering provider and transfusion service to guide selection of compatible blood products, organ allocation decisions, or prenatal/newborn management to minimize risk of incompatibility reactions.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
00 | Procedure performed and documented as usual; no modifier | Rarely used; not typically appended to PLA codes but may appear in some billing systems for default status |