CPT code 88291 denotes the professional interpretation and reporting of cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic testing by a qualified provider, most often a pathologist. This code distinguishes the clinician’s interpretive work from the technical laboratory analysis performed by lab analysts and is central to claims that separately bill professional services for genetic and cytogenetic diagnostics. Nationally, the code matters as the volume of molecular and cytogenetic testing grows and as payers continue to define coverage policies and payment arrangements for interpretive services.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise review of how CPT code 88291 is used in practice, including service definition, typical sites of service, and the clinical context for cytogenetic interpretation. The publication also summarizes commonly discussed reimbursement and coding considerations, benchmark comparisons across major payers, and recent policy updates affecting laboratory and pathology billing. Practical takeaways include when 88291 is reported separately from technical lab work, common billing contexts where the code appears, and areas where payers often issue guidance or edits.

Data not available in the input: associated taxonomies, ICD-10 diagnoses, related CPT or other codes, and payer-specific fee schedules.