Metabolic panel total ca

What is CPT Code 80048?

A basic metabolic panel (BMP) — 8 blood tests measuring electrolytes (sodium, potassium, CO2, chloride), kidney function (BUN, creatinine), blood glucose, and calcium. A subset of the comprehensive metabolic panel.

The Medicare reimbursement rate shown above is the amount the federal government has determined is a reasonable payment for this service. Hospitals and providers that participate in Medicare have agreed to accept these rates from Medicare patients.

Who typically bills this:Independent lab or hospital laboratory

Common Billing Errors for CPT 80048

• !Individual component tests billed separately alongside the panel (unbundling)
• !80048 and 80053 both billed on the same date — they are mutually exclusive
• !Glucose test billed separately when it is already included in the BMP

Red Flags on Your Bill

Negotiation Tips for CPT 80048

1. 1The CLFS rate for 80048 is low (under $15); hospital charges of $200+ for a BMP are highly negotiable
2. 2If both 80048 and 80053 appear on the same date, one is a billing error
3. 3Ask for a self-pay/financial hardship discount on hospital lab charges

Codes That Often Appear With This One

These CPT codes commonly appear on the same bill. Review each one to spot potential bundling errors or duplicate charges.

Found CPT 80048 on Your Bill?

If you see CPT code 80048 on a hospital or medical bill, compare the charged amount to the Medicare rate above. If your bill shows a significantly higher charge, you may have grounds to negotiate.

1. Note the amount charged for CPT 80048 on your itemized bill
2. Compare it to the Medicare rate above — calculate the markup
3. Call the billing department and use the Medicare rate as your anchor:“I see CPT code 80048 billed at [amount]. The Medicare rate for this procedure is $8.46. I'd like to discuss a fair adjustment.”