CPT code 80048
What does CPT code 80048 mean on a medical bill?
This is the basic chemistry panel: a fixed group of common blood tests, including kidney values and salts, ordered and run together. Because it is a package, it is billed as one line rather than one line per test inside it. If your bill also lists those individual tests separately on the same day, you may be paying twice for work done on a single tube of blood.
What does CPT code 80048 usually cost?
Panels are priced as one unit, and the tests inside them are not meant to be added on top. The draw is usually a separate small line, and an outside lab may bill you directly if the sample was sent out.
What should I watch out for with CPT code 80048?
- Individual chemistry tests billed on the same day as the panel that already includes them
- Both the basic panel and the comprehensive panel billed from one tube
- More panels billed than draws recorded in your chart
Seeing CPT code 80048 on your own bill?
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Educational information only — not legal, medical, or financial advice. Always confirm the details with your provider or insurer.