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Code deleted. See 80305, 80306, 80307.

Official Description

Drug screen, any number of drug classes, presumptive, single or multiple drug class method; not otherwise specified presumptive procedure (eg, TOF, MALDI, LDTD, DESI, DART), each procedure

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 80304 refers to a laboratory test designed to detect the presence of one or more drug classes in biological samples such as body tissues or fluids, as well as pharmaceutical compounds. This test employs presumptive procedures, which are preliminary methods used to indicate the possible presence of drugs without providing definitive identification. The term "presumptive" signifies that the results are not conclusive and may require further confirmatory testing. Various advanced techniques are utilized in this process, including Time of Flight (TOF) mass spectrometry, which measures the mass-to-charge ratio of ions to identify substances in a sample. Another method, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI), is a soft ionization technique that enhances the analysis of complex mixtures by utilizing laser energy to create ions from the sample. Additionally, Laser Diode Thermal Desorption (LDTD) is a technique that combines laser energy with tandem mass spectrometry to analyze samples effectively. Dispersed Electrospray Ionization (DESI) is another innovative method that applies high voltage to an aerosol to ionize the sample for analysis. Lastly, Drug Affinity Response Target (DART) is a technique that focuses on mapping interactions between proteins and metabolites to identify specific drugs or chemicals present in the sample. Overall, CPT® Code 80304 encompasses a range of sophisticated methodologies aimed at the preliminary detection of drugs, providing essential information for further clinical evaluation and management.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 80304 is indicated for the detection of various drug classes in patients who may be undergoing substance abuse screening, monitoring for compliance with prescribed medications, or evaluating potential drug interactions. This test is particularly useful in clinical settings where rapid presumptive results are needed to guide further diagnostic or therapeutic decisions.

  • Substance Abuse Screening This test is performed to identify the presence of illicit drugs or controlled substances in individuals suspected of substance abuse.
  • Medication Compliance Monitoring It is used to ensure that patients are adhering to prescribed medication regimens, particularly in cases where medication misuse is a concern.
  • Evaluation of Drug Interactions The procedure helps in assessing potential interactions between different pharmaceutical compounds that a patient may be taking.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 80304 involves several key steps that utilize advanced laboratory techniques to analyze samples for drug presence. Each step is crucial for ensuring accurate and reliable results.

  • Sample Collection A biological sample, such as urine, blood, or saliva, is collected from the patient. The choice of sample type may depend on the clinical context and the substances being tested.
  • Preparation of the Sample The collected sample undergoes preparation, which may include processes such as dilution, filtration, or extraction to isolate the substances of interest from the biological matrix.
  • Application of Presumptive Techniques The prepared sample is then subjected to one or more presumptive testing methods. Techniques such as Time of Flight (TOF) mass spectrometry, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI), Laser Diode Thermal Desorption (LDTD), Dispersed Electrospray Ionization (DESI), or Drug Affinity Response Target (DART) are employed to analyze the sample for the presence of drugs.
  • Data Analysis The results from the mass spectrometry techniques are analyzed to determine the presence and possibly the concentration of various drug classes within the sample.
  • Reporting Results Finally, the findings are compiled into a report that details the detected substances, which can then be used by healthcare providers for further clinical decision-making.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 80304, the laboratory will provide a report detailing the findings. Healthcare providers may use this information to make informed decisions regarding patient care, including potential referrals for further testing or treatment. It is important to note that the results from this presumptive test are preliminary and may require confirmation through more definitive testing methods. Patients may be advised on the next steps based on the results, which could include follow-up appointments or additional assessments to ensure comprehensive care.

Short Descr DRUG SCREEN ONE/MULT CLASS
Medium Descr DRUG SCREEN PRSMPTV 1/MULT CLASS METHOD
Long Descr Drug screen, any number of drug classes, presumptive, single or multiple drug class method; not otherwise specified presumptive procedure (eg, TOF, MALDI, LDTD, DESI, DART), each procedure
Status Code Not Valid for Medicare Purposes
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 9 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Code Not Recognized by OPPS when submitted on Outpatient Hospital Part B Bill Type (12x/13x)
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T2D - Other tests - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
Date
Action
Notes
2016-12-31 Deleted Code deleted. See 80305, 80306, 80307.
2015-01-01 Added Added
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