CPT® Code 82955 is used to report quantitative laboratory testing for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), an enzyme critical for red blood cell function. G6PD testing evaluates enzyme activity to identify deficiencies that can lead to hemolytic anemia, especially under oxidative stress, certain medications, infections, or foods (e.g., fava beans). This test helps guide diagnosis, preventive counseling, and treatment decisions in patients at risk for G6PD deficiency.
Key Facts About CPT® 82955
Service type: Laboratory enzyme assay
Provider type: Physicians and qualified healthcare professionals who order laboratory testing
Medical services included: Yes, quantitative measurement of G6PD enzyme activity
Specimen type: Whole blood, usually collected in EDTA tubes
Test method: Quantitative spectrophotometric or fluorometric assay
Common clinical indications:
- Suspected G6PD deficiency in patients with hemolytic anemia
- Family history of G6PD deficiency
- Screening prior to prescribing medications with hemolytic risk
- Evaluation of neonatal jaundice or hemolytic episodes
- Monitoring patients at risk for oxidative stress–related hemolysis
When to Use CPT® 82955
CPT 82955 is appropriate when:
- Quantitative assessment of G6PD enzyme activity is medically necessary
- The patient exhibits hemolytic symptoms, or screening is indicated due to family history
- Results are used to guide clinical decisions, medication management, or counseling
- The test is performed on a properly collected whole blood specimen
Examples:
- Testing a patient with unexplained anemia after exposure to oxidative medications
- Screening a newborn with hemolytic jaundice for G6PD deficiency
- Confirming enzyme deficiency in a patient with recurrent hemolytic episodes
- Evaluating a patient before prescribing sulfonamide antibiotics or antimalarials
Documentation Requirements
To support CPT 82955 billing, documentation should include:
- Patient identifiers and date of service
- Clinical indication or reason for G6PD testing
- Specimen type and collection date
- Laboratory test method and results
- Interpretation and follow-up recommendations
- Ordering provider credentials and signature
- Laboratory performing the test
Thorough documentation ensures compliance, supports reimbursement, and facilitates clinical decision-making.
Reimbursement and Coding Considerations
- CPT 82955 is reimbursed when medically necessary and properly documented
- Coverage depends on payer policies, clinical indications, and patient risk factors
- Distinguish from qualitative G6PD screening tests, which may use a different CPT code
- Proper diagnosis coding should support hemolytic anemia, enzyme deficiency, or medication safety
- Verify payer-specific laboratory testing policies
Accurate coding and thorough documentation help ensure appropriate reimbursement and reduce claim denials.
How OptiMantra Supports G6PD Testing
OptiMantra’s integrated EMR and practice management system streamlines ordering, documentation, and billing for CPT 82955:
With OptiMantra, providers can:
- Order and document laboratory tests directly within the patient chart
- Record clinical indications, family history, and risk factors
- Review and track lab results over time within the patient’s longitudinal record
- Link lab findings to diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication considerations
- Support compliant, audit-ready billing codes for enzyme testing
By centralizing laboratory workflows, OptiMantra helps practices improve efficiency, maintain compliance, and optimize reimbursement.
Try OptiMantra for free here!
Disclaimer: CPT® codes are maintained by the American Medical Association. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace official coding guidelines or payer policies.
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