The CBC helps providers screen for a wide range of conditions and diseases, both acute and chronic, and results are delivered in less than a minute. In fact, in terms of testing prevalence in the US, the CBC with automated differential (CPT code 85025) is the most frequently ordered and performed test.
The popularity of the CBC test stems from its reliability and user-friendly nature. Whether in a 3-part or 5-part differential setup, modern hematology instruments are marvels of innovation, boasting simplicity and consistency across laboratory diagnostic equipment.
Convenience, safety and ease of use. Centrifugal separation is not required to perform a CBC. Anticoagulated blood samples are readily available for testing without delay. Many hematology systems allow for automated sample collection directly from sealed blood collection devices, minimizing operator exposure to samples. This ensures swift, safe, and hassle-free testing, particularly valued in emergency rooms and urgent care settings where rapid decision-making is paramount.
The CBC’s utility extends far and wide, offering insights into a myriad of differential diagnoses. From anemia to internal bleeding, bacterial or viral infections, cancer, routine physical exams, and overall health status assessments, the CBC provides invaluable clinical information. Platelet studies further enhance its utility in evaluating bleeding disorders and assessing metabolic or treatment-related statuses, such as chemotherapy effects.
For diagnosis of acute conditions including internal bleeding or an infection spiraling out of control, every second counts. The CBC test shines here, using anti-coagulated whole blood, the ability to use a closed collection device without centrifugation, in analytical time in the range of one minute. From patient presentation to result availability, the CBC test sets an enviable standard for speed: 16+ tests available in under 5 minutes.
In many primary care settings, basic hemoglobin and hematocrit tests may be performed on simple waived systems from Hemocue and others. Adding a white blood cell test to look for an infection is useful, but takes the license requirement to moderate complexity. An increasing number of urgent care and free-standing emergency room centers are investing in providing hematology systems and the required CLIA license to provide the information they need to expand diagnostic utility beyond the basics. They can then assess anemia and potential infections with a larger suite of information. A CBC test with 3-part differential provides a suitable system for some practices. A 5-part system may well be the right choice for any practice that requires a detailed view of all 5 types of WBC for their diagnostic process, such as oncology or rheumatology practices.
Deciding on the best path forward starts with consideration of your patient population, the diseases you see and manage frequently, and the level of care your practice provides.
Once you have established your specific testing needs and understand how a hematology test can improve them, it’s time to call in our experts. Many practices rely on the advice of their colleagues, as well as the lab of the hospital where they typically practice, for product and lab advice. In addition, your distributor can bring hematology suppliers to meet with you for detailed discussions in understand your patients’ needs and your desire for sufficient diagnostic information to manage them effectively. At Vyzorb, with any purchase of a CBC analyzer and service contract, we’ll help you with your transition from your CLIA certificate of waiver to moderate complexity testing at no added charge.
No matter how you make your decision regarding hematology testing, you will be selecting a pathway to fast, effective lab results that can assist you in patient management from acute needs for anemia and infection to annual physicals and assessment of a variety other conditions.
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