Blood tests can be confusing. When you have blood drawn, you may watch the technician put your blood into the little tubes with rainbow-colored tops, and wonder what they’re testing, and why. There may be many things weighing on your mind if you need a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (also called a CMP), such as what your results may mean, how much the test costs, and why it might be ordered for you.
The CPT code of the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel is 80053.
What is a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?
This is a type of blood test. It measures fourteen different substances in the blood and can give your doctor information about your body’s functioning. It especially looks at metabolism (the body’s process of making the energy needed to function) and the balance of different chemicals in the body. This test is most frequently ordered for patients who may be on medication that affects the kidneys or liver, as part of a general checkup, or for patients who are diabetic. It may also be used to rule out other problems with the kidneys and liver if you are experiencing symptoms with these organs.
What is being tested?
-Glucose: the body’s main source of energy
-Calcium: a mineral used for the function of the heart, muscles, and nerves.
-Sodium, Carbon Dioxide, Chloride, Potassium: These electrolytes control fluid levels in the body and the balance of base and acid in the body.
-Creatinine: a waste product made by muscles
-Albumin: a protein made in the liver
-Total proteins: measures the total amount of protein present in the blood.
-ALP (alkaline phosphatase), ALT (alanine transaminase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase): enzymes made by the liver.
-Bilirubin: a waste product made by the liver
-Blood Urea Nitrogen and creatinine- waste products removed from the blood by the kidneys.
What is the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel used for?
This test is done when providers need information about the functioning of the body. It can show how the kidneys are functioning, as well as the liver. It shows blood sugar levels and can be done to see how well patients with diabetes are managing their health. It also shows electrolyte and fluid balances. Since many medications can have kidney and liver side effects, the CMP is often done to check on treatments and make sure organs aren’t being negatively affected. It may also be ordered if your doctor thinks there is an issue with your kidney or liver, as a follow-up test.
What happens during a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?
Your provider or technician will take blood samples from your arm by inserting a needle. After the needle is in, they will collect the blood in a small tube. You may feel a small sting when the needle is inserted or taken out, but the test is usually less than five minutes and relatively simple.
Will I need to do anything to prepare for the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel?
Most providers recommend that you fast (no eating or drinking) eight hours before your test. Remember to check with them beforehand, so you know when you need to stop eating and drinking.
What do my results mean?
Only your doctor or provider can accurately read your results, and tell you about what they mean. If anything is abnormal, it can mean there is an issue with your kidneys, liver, or your blood sugars. Once your results are read, your doctor will go over them with you and tell you if you need any more tests.
How much does a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel Cost?
It’s important to know your cost before you have a test done, as it can prevent surprise medical bills. A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel can cost between $10 and $94, depending on where you have the test done, and what your provider charges. It can also vary based on where you live. The national average cost of a CMP is $48. If you have a co-pay, it could cost you as little as $10 for the test.
Having a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, or a CMP, done can help your doctor check your overall health. It should be done as part of your routine checkup and will be done more often if you have kidney, liver, or glucose issues. It helps your provider know the details about how your body is working and can be a very useful test. Even if you have had one done before, knowing the cost and benefits of this blood test can really give you confidence before you head into your doctor.
Here at ZeaMed, we aim to help all patients find affordable, high-quality healthcare. Whether you are looking for information about routine blood tests like this one or having more complex procedures done, you’ll want to price check and read details on our website. Check out ZeaMed today to find the best services in your area!
Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/comprehensive-metabolic-panel-cmp/
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/medical-tests/003468
https://www.mdsave.com/procedures/cmp-comprehensive-metabolic-panel/d786f8ce
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/tests/comprehensive-metabolic-panel