Step 2: Extended Weights

The EDC Analyzer™ reviews all line-level services on the claim to identify diagnostic tests that fall into each of the following categories:

  1. Laboratory tests

  2. X-rays (film)

  3. CT/MRI/Ultrasound

  4. EKG/Respiratory therapy/Other diagnostic services

Each category carries an extended weight. The EDC Analyzer™ adds together the weights for each unique category of tests found on the claim to determine the overall extended weight. For example, if 2 laboratory tests and 3 X-rays are billed, the EDC Analyzer™ will count the laboratory tests as one and the X-rays as one.

Extended weights were calculated for each category based on the level of ED resources expended (including staff time) to note orders, communicate with the patient and staff, and follow up as needed.

Below are some examples showing how the EDC Analyzer™ assigns an extended weight based on a diagnostic test:

Step 2 Examples

Diagnostic Category CPT Code Code Description Extended Weight*
Lab 80048 BASIC METABOLIC PANEL CALCIUM TOTAL ***
Lab 85025 COMPL CBC W AUTO DIFFIAL WBC ***
CT/MRI/Ultrasound 70450 CT HEAD/BRN C-MATRL ***
EKG/RT/Other Diagnostic 93005 ECG ROUTINE ECG W/LEAST 12 LDS TRCG ONLY W/O I&R ***
EKG/RT/Other Diagnostic 94640 INHALATION TREATMENT ***
Lab 80053 COMPRE METAB PANEL ***
Lab 83605 LACTATE (Lactic Acid) ***
X-Ray – Plain Film 71020 CHEST XRAY 2VW FRONTAL LATL ***
*Redacted