Wiki Chem 13

[jackiemal]

I would like to know what the difference is between a CMP and a Chem 13. I can find a code for the CMP, but can't find any information on a Chem 13.
Can someone explain what the difference is and if there is a CPT code that covers it?
Thanks!

 

[Pam Warren]

Find out what individual tests are part of the Chem 13, as I've seen them vary slightly by lab. The CMP has 14 elements, so as long as your Chem 13 includes all of the tests listed, code the 80053.

 

[jackiemal]

The Chem 3 panel contains the following:
GLU, BUN, CRE, UA, CA, ALB, TP, ALT, AST, ALP, TBIL, GGT, AMY.
Then it has separated out QC, HEM 0

Any help you could give me would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Pam Warren]

Well, some of the chemistry ordered are included in the BMP (80053), and there are others that are not. Uric acid, GGT, Amylase would definitely have to be coded separately, per CPT. I'm not a lab coder, so run these through your CCI edits to see if they can be billed separately.

Anyone else have more information?