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85027

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Code Description

CPT code 85027 is used to report a Complete Blood Count (CBC) without a white blood cell differential. The test measures red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet count, and red blood cell indices to evaluate overall health and detect conditions such as anemia, infection, and blood disorders. Unlike CPT 85025, this code does not include an automated or manual white blood cell differential.

When to Use 85027

Common examples include:

  • Routine laboratory testing

  • Anemia evaluation

  • Preoperative laboratory work

  • Monitoring chronic medical conditions

  • Annual health examinations

  • Hospital admission testing

  • Follow-up blood count monitoring

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include:

  • Medical necessity for the laboratory testing

  • Ordering provider

  • Laboratory results

  • Patient diagnosis or symptoms

  • Date of specimen collection

  • Complete laboratory report

Examples
Example 1

A patient scheduled for elective surgery undergoes routine preoperative laboratory testing. A Complete Blood Count without a white blood cell differential is ordered to evaluate baseline blood cell values, making CPT code 85027 the appropriate code.

Example 2

A patient with chronic anemia returns for follow-up laboratory testing. The physician orders a CBC without a differential to monitor hemoglobin and hematocrit levels during treatment.

Common Billing Mistakes

Common billing mistakes include:

  • Reporting 85027 when a white blood cell differential was performed

  • Billing CBC components separately

  • Selecting 85025 instead of 85027

  • Duplicate laboratory billing

  • Insufficient documentation supporting medical necessity

Related CPT Codes
85025

Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Automated Differential

80048

Basic Metabolic Panel

80053

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

FAQ

What does CPT code 85027 cover?

CPT code 85027 reports a Complete Blood Count (CBC) without a white blood cell differential.

What is included in CPT 85027?

The test includes red blood cell count, white blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet count, and red blood cell indices but does not include a white blood cell differential.

What is the difference between CPT 85027 and 85025?

CPT 85027 reports a CBC without a white blood cell differential, while CPT 85025 includes an automated white blood cell differential.

When is CPT 85027 commonly performed?

It is commonly performed for routine laboratory testing, anemia monitoring, preoperative evaluations, chronic disease management, and follow-up blood count assessments.

Procedure Type

Hematology

Test Type

Includes

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Without White Blood Cell Differential