AMA CPT® Assistant - 2007 Issue 12 (December)
Pathology and Laboratory (December 2007)
December 2007 page 15 Bonus Feature: Pathology and Laboratory Question: Please clarify whether reporting code 87804 two times, once with modifier 59 ( 87804 , 87804 59), would be appropriate for differentiating rapid influenza tests; those providing separate, distinct results for both strains A and B on one device. Answer: The detection of both influenza A and B strains may be part of two entirely separate procedures or may be included within the same test device because these two analyses are not uncommonly requested by the clinician together. If the assays provided two separate results (eg, a result for influenza...
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Article Overview
This December 2007 Pathology and Laboratory article addresses a coding question involving rapid influenza testing and the reporting of separate laboratory results. It is relevant for coders, billers, and laboratory compliance staff who work with CPT reporting guidance and modifier usage in pathology and laboratory services. The article presents a brief Q&A format centered on when multiple service units and a modifier may be discussed in relation to one test platform producing distinct results.
Why This Topic Matters
Laboratory coding often depends on whether testing produces one combined result or separate reportable services. This article helps readers understand the general reporting scenario being discussed in a CPT Assistant Q&A context.
Article Sections
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December 2007 page 15
A brief bonus feature in the Pathology and Laboratory series presenting a coding question and response from CPT Assistant. The discussion centers on rapid influenza testing and reporting considerations for laboratory services.
What You Will Learn
- The article’s topic focus within pathology and laboratory coding
- How the Q&A is framed for rapid influenza testing reporting
- The general type of CPT Assistant guidance addressed in the piece
- The role of modifier-related discussion in a laboratory coding context
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Laboratory billing staff
- Compliance professionals
- Pathology and laboratory practices
Codes Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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