RBC retics have the code 85045. Reticulated platelets have no such CPT code, but I have suggested to the AMA committee that does this coding that a need exists for one. One problem is that reticulated platelets are as yet not an FDA cleared assay, although there are some labs in the US reporting this as a clinical test (including my own) . These is an initiative started by the International Society for Laboratory Hematology to work on the standardization of the reticulated platelet assay and I have suggested to the NCCLS that a document on this area might be timely. It does become a Catch 22 to do a clinical test without reimbursement, but our lab (initiated by Ken Ault prior to my arrival) does the assay along with the platelet associated antibody assay (CPT 86023) and reports an absolute reticulated platelet count that allows use of the CPT 85595, since an automated platelet count is done. This is not total reimbursement, but we and the ordering clinicians believe the assay is of clinical utility and report it for the sake of quality medical care. Hopefully in a few years the efforts thorough laboratory oriented societies and manufacturers will result in a CPT code for reticulated platelets. Regards, Bruce H. Davis, M.D. Maine Medical Center Research Institute 81 Research Drive Scarborough, Maine 04074 USA PHONE: 207-885-8113 FAX: 207-885-8110 Email: davisb@mmc.org >>> "Dr. Michael Brown" <mbrown@ypii.com> 02/16/01 11:35AM >>> What CPT codes are clinical laboratories using for RBC retics and reticulated platelet assays? I have searched the archives and can't seem to find anything. Thank you for any assistance. Michael Michael Brown, MD Yellowstone Pathology Institute Billings, MT 406-238-6360
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