Billing and Coding: Allergy Testing

Allergy testing is covered when medical records document a history suggesting possible allergy, attempts to narrow suspected allergens, selection of minimal necessary tests based on patient-specific history and exam, and clear documentation of tests, interpretations, and objective reaction measurements (wheal and erythema in mm or standardized grading). CPT 82785 is generally inappropriate for routine allergy testing and CPT 86003 is not usually necessary in addition to skin testing; non-covered services must be billed with appropriate modifiers and all records must be legible and signed by the responsible provider.

"Allergy testing is covered when the medical record documents a history indicating the possible presence of allergy and the clinician selected a minimal number of tests/antigens based on patient-spe..."

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