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CPT 38542 Fee Schedule

Last Verified: September 2025

Healthcare providers use this code to document and receive reimbursement for visits that address moderate-level medical decision-making, often including multiple diagnoses or prescription management.

Dissection; Deep Jugular Node(S)
Key FactDetail
Service Type

Surgery

Surgical Procedures on the Hemic and Lymphatic Systems

Common Place of Service

22 - On Campus-Outpatient Hospital

21 - Inpatient Hospital

Common Modifiers

None

LT - Left side of body

RT - Right side of body

Complexity LevelModerate

National average reimbursement for CPT 38542 by major payers:

bcbs

$654.30

uhc

$666.35

aetna

$708.58

cigna

$855.92

Preview provider-level rates for...
For billing codeCPT 38542
PayerCodeRateNPITax IDStateSpecialty

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CPT 38542 vs. Other Surgical Procedures on the Hemic and Lymphatic Systems Codes

The CPT 38542 code is part of the Surgery services used for Surgical Procedures on the Hemic and Lymphatic Systems. It represents a moderate-complexity encounter and is one of several codes that vary based on time spent, level of medical decision-making, and documentation requirements.

The CPT 38542 code involves more provider time and moderate medical decision-making, unlike lower-level codes that require less time and simpler assessments. It typically includes multiple diagnoses, medication management, or test interpretation, leading to higher reimbursement and more detailed documentation requirements.

CodeComplexityDescription
38500Moderate
Bx/Excis Lymph Node(S);Superfic'l-Separa
38505Low
Biopsy/Exc Lymph Node Site Unspec
38542Moderate
Dissection; Deep Jugular Node(S)
38792Low
Injection Procedure; Radioactive Tracer For Identification Of Sentinel Node

What is a fee schedule?

A fee schedule is a list of fixed prices that healthcare providers charge for specific services, including CPT 38542. These prices vary depending on payer type (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance), geographic location, and provider contracts.

Understanding the 38542 fee schedule helps patients estimate costs and providers optimize billing for accurate reimbursements.

Factors that affect fee schedules


Medicare & Medicaid Rates

Government-set reimbursement amounts


Private Insurance Rates

Negotiated rates between providers and insurance companies


Geographic Location

Costs may be higher in urban areas.


Provider Type

Hospital providers may have different rates than private practice.

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