Tissue pathology exam (CPT 88305): what Medicare pays
On a hospital bill, CPT 88305 is the code for: Pathology examination of tissue using a microscope, intermediate complexity. Here is what Medicare pays for it, what is billed on average, and how to question the line on your bill.
CPT 88305 at a glance
| Medicare average allowed amount | $57.93 |
|---|---|
| Average amount billed to Medicare | $185.12 |
| Billed vs. allowed | 3.2 times |
| Services in the data | 12,356,137 |
| Setting and year | Office or clinic, national average, 2024 |
On a hospital bill a patient shared publicly in 2026, this line was billed $166.95.
Check my bill freeWhat this code is
This code is for a pathologist examining tissue under a microscope. Each specimen can be billed on its own line.
Why your hospital bill can show more
Medicare pays a national amount for each code. Hospitals set their own list prices, called the chargemaster, so a hospital bill can show a much higher amount for the same code. In a hospital or an emergency room, a separate facility charge is often added. Medicare's amount is not a price the hospital must accept, but it is a fair reference to negotiate.
Common billing problems with CPT 88305
Billed twice on the same day
The same code, on the same day and at the same price, can appear twice. Sometimes it is real (a second sample, the other side, mother and baby). Ask for the time and the reason of each one, and ask them to remove the extra charge if it was done once.
No code on the line
If your bill shows a total without codes, ask for a fully itemized bill. Without codes, nobody can check the charges.
How to question this charge
- Ask the hospital for a fully itemized bill, with the code, date, quantity and price of every line.
- Compare the line with the Medicare amount above.
- Ask in writing for a fair price, the lowest amount they will accept, and any discount for paying in full or for patients without insurance.
- Ask for the hospital's financial assistance policy.
BillCheck reads a photo of your bill on your phone, compares every line and writes the letter. Check my bill.
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
How much does CPT 88305 cost?
It depends on where it is done. In 2024, Medicare's average allowed amount for CPT 88305 in an office setting was $57.93, and providers billed Medicare $185.12 on average. Hospitals can bill more. If you have no insurance, ask for the self-pay price before you pay.
Can I be billed twice for CPT 88305 on the same day?
Only if it was really done twice. Ask for the time and the reason of each line. If it was done once, ask them to remove the extra charge.
How do I question this charge?
Ask for an itemized bill, compare the line with the Medicare amount, then ask in writing for a fair price and for financial assistance. BillCheck writes the letter for you.