Summary & Overview
CPT 84132: Assay of Serum Potassium
CPT code 84132 is a widely utilized laboratory procedure for the assay of serum potassium, a key indicator of electrolyte balance in patients. This test is fundamental in the diagnosis and management of conditions such as hyperkalemia, hypokalemia, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. The code is recognized and reimbursed by major national payers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, and UnitedHealthcare, underscoring its importance in both clinical and billing contexts.
This publication provides a comprehensive overview of CPT code 84132, detailing its clinical relevance, typical sites of service, and payer coverage. Readers will gain insights into current benchmarks, policy updates, and the broader clinical context for serum potassium testing. The analysis also highlights associated modifiers, relevant taxonomies, and common ICD-10 diagnoses linked to this laboratory service. By understanding the nuances of this code, stakeholders can better navigate the evolving landscape of laboratory billing and reimbursement.
CPT Code Overview
CPT code 84132 represents the assay of serum potassium, a critical chemistry laboratory test used to measure potassium levels in a patient's blood. This test is essential for monitoring electrolyte balance and is commonly performed in laboratory settings, including hospital laboratories and independent labs. Accurate assessment of serum potassium is vital for diagnosing and managing a range of medical conditions, making this procedure a cornerstone in clinical laboratory services.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A patient presents to a clinic or hospital with symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, or irregular heart rhythms. The provider suspects an electrolyte imbalance and orders a chemistry laboratory test to measure serum potassium levels. The blood sample is collected and sent to a laboratory, which may be either within the hospital or an independent facility. The laboratory performs the assay using CPT code 84132 to determine the patient's potassium concentration. Results are used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as hyperkalemia, hypokalemia, hypertension, or chronic kidney disease.
Coding Specifications
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Modifiers:
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Modifier
90: Reference (Outside) Laboratory — Used when the laboratory test is performed by an outside laboratory rather than the facility where the specimen was collected. -
Modifier
91: Repeat Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory Test — Used when the same laboratory test is repeated on the same patient on the same day to obtain additional information.
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Provider Taxonomies:
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