CPT code 85048 denotes an automated white blood cell (WBC) count performed by a laboratory analyst who reviews a blood sample on a slide and uses automated instrumentation to quantify leukocytes. This basic hematology test is a foundational diagnostic and monitoring tool across inpatient and outpatient settings, supporting care for infections, immune disorders, and hematologic conditions. Nationally, the code matters because WBC counts drive clinical decision-making, laboratory workflow, and routine billing for routine and acute care encounters.

Key payers included in the analysis are Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The publication provides a concise overview of coverage and billing context relevant to those payers, while noting when specific payer data is not available.

Readers will learn the clinical context of the service, typical sites of service, common modifiers reported with the code (overview only), and where to find related coding guidance. The report also outlines benchmarks and policy considerations relevant to laboratory reimbursement and billing compliance at a national level. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.