AMA CPT® Assistant - 2007 Issue 12 (December)
Pathology and Laboratory (December 2007)
December 2007 page 14b Bonus Feature: Pathology and Laboratory Question: Is it necessary to use modifier 59, Distinct procedural service, when laboratory tests contain the same CPT code more than once? For example, flow cytometry studies may involve reporting 88184 and 88185 x3. Would modifier 59 be appended to the second and third use of 88185 ? Answer: From a CPT coding perspective, it is not necessary to append modifier 59, Distinct procedural service , to CPT add-on codes because these codes represent additional or incremental work associated with the basic procedure performed. Code 88185 , Flow cytometry, cell surface, cytoplasmic, or...
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Article Overview
This premium article addresses a pathology and laboratory coding question from a CPT coding perspective. It is intended for coders, billers, and laboratory billing staff who need general guidance on reporting repeat laboratory services and understanding how add-on coding concepts relate to modifier use. The article also identifies the relevant CPT codes involved in the example and explains the broader coding topic without substituting for the full guidance.
Why This Topic Matters
Laboratory and pathology claims can involve repeated services and add-on reporting, and improper modifier use may affect claim accuracy. This article helps readers understand the general coding issue discussed in a CPT Assistant-style Q&A.
Article Sections
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Bonus Feature: Pathology and Laboratory
A coding Q&A focused on pathology and laboratory reporting issues. The section centers on repeat reporting of laboratory services and related CPT guidance.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames a laboratory coding question in a CPT context.
- What general add-on coding concepts are discussed in relation to repeated reporting.
- Which coding issue the article uses as its example scenario.
- How the guidance is positioned for pathology and laboratory billing.
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Pathology and laboratory billing staff
- Coding educators
- Compliance staff
Codes Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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