This week, we will learn about the Pathology and Lab Section of the CPT Book. Physicians and healthcare professionals often rely on laboratory tests to guide patient care.

One such coding is called panel codes, which group tests commonly performed together. Here is a short article from AAPC to help you better understand coding panels: CPT Coding for Laboratory Panels.

Review the Pathology and Laboratory section of the CPT book, and note that many codes include a list of tests within one code's description.

Tasks:
1. Describe in your own words why specific tests are grouped into panels.
2. Explain how you would code if all tests in a panel are not performed, and how this applies to a scenario.
3. Describe what is coded when more tests than those in a panel are performed. Provide a specific example.