Serum creatinine concentration (qualitative assessment for end-stage renal disease)
This test evaluates kidney function by measuring a protein waste product in your blood, which helps determine if your kidneys are working properly or if you may have advanced kidney disease.
This qualitative assessment helps Medicare determine if you qualify for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) benefits.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 67868-0
- Short code
- ENDSTAGERENALDISEASEMEDICALEVIDENCEREPORTMEDICAREENTITLEMENTORPATIENT
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Serum creatinine is a waste product from muscle metabolism that kidneys normally filter out of your blood. When kidney function declines, creatinine levels rise. This test checks whether your levels are consistent with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) criteria, often used in Medicare eligibility evaluations.
Why It Matters for Medicare
Medicare uses specific criteria, including serum creatinine levels, to assess if you qualify for ESRD benefits. This test helps verify whether your kidney function has reached a stage where dialysis or transplantation may be necessary.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is analyzed to determine the concentration of creatinine. The results are compared to established thresholds to determine if they meet ESRD criteria for Medicare purposes.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally before the test, but inform your healthcare provider if you are taking medications that could affect kidney function.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
ESRD Lab Review (Serum Creatinine Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
If your serum creatinine levels are high enough to meet ESRD criteria, you may qualify for Medicare coverage for dialysis or kidney transplant services. This test is part of a broader evaluation to confirm kidney failure and assess your need for long-term medical support.
Yes, your healthcare provider or Medicare representative will discuss the results with you. If you qualify, you may receive information about available treatment options, including dialysis or transplant programs.
This test is typically performed as part of a larger evaluation for ESRD. If you are already under medical care for kidney disease, your provider may have already discussed the process with you.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy