CPT 2015: Complete overhaul of drug test codes will require detailed documentation

Why This Topic Matters

Drug testing reporting changed substantially in CPT 2015, affecting documentation, code selection, laboratory workflow, and potential reimbursement. Practices that perform in-office testing need to understand the new framework to avoid coding errors and to assess whether their current testing setup still fits payer expectations.

Article Sections

1. Overview of the CPT 2015 drug testing changes

   Introduces the broad changes to drug testing reporting and why practices need more detailed test information from clinicians. It also frames the impact on office laboratory workflows and documentation.

2. New terminology and testing categories

   Explains the revised terminology used in the updated CPT framework for drug testing. It distinguishes the general types of testing discussed in the article and places them in the context of the new code structure.

3. Expect limits on definitive testing

   Describes how the new definitive testing structure affects reporting expectations and laboratory capabilities. It discusses how code selection is organized at a high level and notes the relationship between testing method and reportable services.

4. Use the definitive drug list

   Summarizes the role of the CPT drug list and related reference material in supporting correct reporting. It also covers the article’s discussion of how unspecified situations are handled within the new framework.

5. Hold off on purchasing an analyzer

   Addresses equipment planning considerations and payer adoption uncertainty under the new coding system. It discusses the operational and financial timing questions raised by the article.