ALCAT Test (Food Allergy Test)
Are Hidden Food Sensitivities Making You Sick?
Do you experience symptoms such as mild eczema, fatigue, headaches, joint pain, or gastrointestinal discomfort after consuming meals? If so, you may be experiencing food sensitivities. Food sensitivities affect the body by triggering chronic activation of the immune system. Standard food allergy tests that measure antibody production have strict criteria that immune reactions caused by food sensitivities do not meet. The ALCAT (Antigen Leukocyte Cellular Antibody Test) test was developed to detect these sensitivities. For over 20 years, the ALCAT has been a useful tool for identifying sensitivities that are linked to chronic activation of the immune system. Brentview Medical Urgent Care is pleased to offer ALCAT testing to our patients as part of a focus on healthy lifestyles.
How Does It Work?
The ALCAT food allergy test is a blood test that measures the body’s response on a cellular level to a wide array of substances. The ALCAT test exposes the patient’s blood to a panel that includes over 300 different chemicals and foods, and then measures white blood cell reactions. This comprehensive approach provides invaluable information critical to maintaining good health. Following the ALCAT test, our patients receive a 4-day rotational diet based on the findings of the test.
ALCAT Test Options
Platinum Comprehensive ALCAT Test – 320 items
- 200 Foods
- 50 Functional foods & medicinal herbs
- 10 Food colorings
- 10 Environmental chemicals
- 20 Molds
- 20 Antibiotics/medicines
Comprehensive Wellness 1 ALCAT Test – 250 items
The Test Results and Rotational Diet
The ALCAT test results are presented in an easy-to-read, color-coded format. The patient’s incompatible foods are highlighted and the level of each reaction (severe, moderate or mild) is noted. The ALCAT test results also clearly identify the foods which are non-reactive “safe” foods. In addition to the results, each test also includes a customized 4-Day Rotational Diet designed for optimal health and wellness. Our physicians and staff will help you make sense of the information you receive and use that information to develop a diet plan that helps you reach your health goals.
If you suspect food sensitivities are having an adverse effect on your daily life, come see us at Brentview Medical Urgent Care for an ALCAT test.
Billing FAQs
Will my insurance cover the cost of an ALCAT test?
Yes, certain insurance policies will pay for all or part of ALCAT testing. Patients must have out of network benefits. No HMO’s are accepted.
Please contact the insurance company directly to verify the following information (click here for a useful worksheet):
*You must have “out of network” benefits and CPT code 83516 must be covered to receive insurance coverage for the ALCAT test.
Will you file claims for Medicare or Medicaid?
No, this is a non-covered service under Medicare guidelines and therefore we do not file claims with Medicare or Medicaid.
What do you need to file an insurance claim?
- Receipt for payment of the test (we provide this when you order through us.)
- A prescription from a physician which includes a ICD-10 diagnosis code along with their Tax ID# or UPIN#.
- A copy of the front and back of the patient’s insurance card
- Patient date of birth and name of insured.