Laboratory Question for the Week of February 13, 2017

Question:

Is it acceptable to list numerous CBC or hemograms on a charge master?

Answer:

While having multiple CBCs or hemograms on the charge master is acceptable and sometimes very necessary, they complicate the selection process in the order-entry module. To minimize the confusion of which CBC to order, be sure to include important criteria in the test description.

For example, instead of using a generic description of hemogram or CBC include additional terms such as “with differential” or “without differential” to clarify the physician’s choice. For example: