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85018

Hemoglobin (Hgb)

Code Description

CPT code 85018 is used to report a laboratory test that measures the concentration of hemoglobin (Hgb) in a blood specimen. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein found in red blood cells, and the test is commonly used to screen for or monitor anemia, blood loss, and other hematologic conditions.

When to Use 85018

Common examples include:

  • Anemia screening

  • Evaluation of fatigue

  • Monitoring blood loss

  • Preventive health screening

  • Pregnancy laboratory testing

  • Pediatric wellness screening

  • Follow-up hematology testing

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include:

  • Medical necessity for the laboratory testing

  • Ordering provider

  • Laboratory result

  • Patient diagnosis or symptoms

  • Date of specimen collection

  • Complete laboratory report

Examples
Example 1

A child presents for a routine well-child examination. The physician orders a hemoglobin test to screen for iron deficiency anemia, and CPT code 85018 is reported.

Example 2

A patient with a history of chronic anemia returns for follow-up laboratory testing. A hemoglobin level is obtained to monitor response to treatment, making CPT code 85018 the appropriate code.

Common Billing Mistakes

Common billing mistakes include:

  • Reporting 85018 instead of a Complete Blood Count (CBC) when appropriate

  • Duplicate laboratory billing

  • Insufficient documentation supporting medical necessity

  • Incorrect diagnosis coding

  • Billing the wrong hematology test

Related CPT Codes
85025

Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Automated Differential

85027

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

83036

Hemoglobin A1C

FAQ

What does CPT code 85018 cover?

CPT code 85018 reports a laboratory test that measures the concentration of hemoglobin in a blood specimen.

What is a hemoglobin test used for?

It is commonly used to screen for anemia, evaluate blood loss, monitor chronic medical conditions, and assess overall red blood cell health.

What is the difference between CPT 85018 and 85027?

CPT 85018 measures only the hemoglobin level, while CPT 85027 reports a Complete Blood Count (CBC) without a white blood cell differential.

When is CPT 85018 commonly performed?

It is commonly performed during preventive screenings, anemia evaluations, pregnancy care, pediatric wellness visits, and follow-up monitoring of hematologic conditions.

Procedure Type

Hematology

Test Type

Purpose

Hemoglobin (Hgb)

Measure Blood Hemoglobin Level