Basic metabolic panel (Calcium, ionized)
💬 Plain Language Explanation
What this means
This is a basic metabolic panel - a blood test that checks kidney function, blood sugar, and electrolytes.
Why you might see this
This is a common lab test. Your doctor likely ordered this to check your kidney function, blood sugar levels, or electrolyte balance. It's often done during routine check-ups or to monitor health conditions.
Common context
Common routine lab test, often part of annual physicals or health monitoring.
What to ask your provider
"'What was this blood test checking for? Were the results normal?'"
Relative Value Units (RVUs)
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Clinical Information
When to Use
Basic metabolic panel with ionized calcium instead of total calcium - includes 8 tests with ionized calcium measurement
Common Scenarios
Documentation Requirements
- Order from physician required
- Test results documented
- Normal/abnormal values reported
- Clinical interpretation if applicable
Coding Guidelines
Common Modifiers
Bundling Rules
- Panel includes 8 individual tests with ionized calcium
- Cannot bill individual component tests separately
- Includes all listed tests in panel
Exclusions
- Do not bill individual component codes if panel billed
- Do not bill comprehensive metabolic panel (80053) on same day
Coding Notes
Clinical scenarios
- Order from physician required
- Test results documented
- Normal/abnormal values reported
- Order from physician required
- Test results documented
- Normal/abnormal values reported
- Order from physician required
- Test results documented
- Normal/abnormal values reported
Who are you?
Code Details
Medicare Pricing
PFSRVU Breakdown
OPPS Details
National Limit: $8.46
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Ask a QuestionFrequently Asked Questions
CPT 80048 is the billing code for "Basic metabolic panel (Calcium, ionized)". Basic metabolic panel with ionized calcium instead of total calcium - includes 8 tests with ionized calcium measurement
CPT 80048 has a total RVU of 0.96, broken down as: Work RVU 0.05, Practice Expense RVU 0.90, and Malpractice RVU 0.01. RVUs (Relative Value Units) determine Medicare reimbursement rates.
Key documentation requirements for CPT 80048 include: Order from physician required; Test results documented; Normal/abnormal values reported; Clinical interpretation if applicable. Missing or incomplete documentation is a leading cause of claim denials for this code.
Bundling considerations for CPT 80048: Panel includes 8 individual tests with ionized calcium. Cannot bill individual component tests separately Use an NCCI bundling checker to verify specific code combinations before billing.
Common modifiers for CPT 80048 include: 26 (Professional component only (interpretation)), TC (Technical component only (performance)), 91 (Repeat clinical diagnostic laboratory test, same day). Modifiers indicate special circumstances and can affect reimbursement or prevent claim denials.
The typical time requirement for CPT 80048 is Automated testing - results typically available within hours. Time-based codes require documentation of the actual time spent providing the service.