Hemoglobin glycosylated a1c

What is CPT Code 83036?

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) — a blood test that measures average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months. Used to diagnose diabetes and monitor how well blood sugar is controlled in people with diabetes.

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 83036

• !Billed more than four times per year without documentation of clinical need for more frequent monitoring
• !Billed alongside a fructosamine test (82985) as a duplicate measure of blood sugar control
• !Point-of-care A1c (83037) billed at the lab code rate (83036) without disclosure

Red Flags on Your Bill

Negotiation Tips for CPT 83036

1. 1The CLFS rate for 83036 is roughly $12–$14; any charge over $50 at a hospital lab is negotiable
2. 2For uninsured diabetic patients, independent labs often offer A1c testing for $20–$35
3. 3Medicare covers A1c testing twice per year for diabetics — verify frequency before paying

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 83036 on Your Bill?

If you see CPT code 83036 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 83036 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 83036 billed at [amount]. The Medicare rate for this procedure is $9.71. I'd like to discuss a fair adjustment.”