83020 Hemoglobin electrophoresis
Also known as: hemoglobin electrophoresis, Hb electrophoresis, hemoglobin fractionation
Hemoglobin electrophoresis, a laboratory technique that separates hemoglobin variants to identify abnormal hemoglobins and diagnose hemoglobinopathies.
In Plain Language
blood test to check for sickle cell and other hemoglobin disorders
Clinical Context
Primary screening and diagnostic test for sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and other hemoglobin variants (HbS, HbC, HbE).
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.37 |
| Total RVU | 0.37 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Lab and pathology codes require an order from the treating provider with clinical indication. For molecular pathology and genetic testing, document the specific analytes tested and clinical rationale.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.37, this code ranks in the 29th percentile among Pathology & Lab codes — 1.8x below the median (0.68). The highest wRVU in this category is 2.78.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 83020?
CPT 83020 (Hemoglobin electrophoresis) is a Pathology & Lab code. Hemoglobin electrophoresis, a laboratory technique that separates hemoglobin variants to identify abnormal hemoglobins and diagnose hemoglobinopathies.
Who uses CPT code 83020?
CPT 83020 is used by multiple specialties. Primary screening and diagnostic test for sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and other hemoglobin variants (HbS, HbC, HbE).
When is CPT 83020 used?
Primary screening and diagnostic test for sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and other hemoglobin variants (HbS, HbC, HbE).
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.