decisionhealth Newsletters, Coder Pink Sheets - 2010 Issue 3 (March)
New G-codes could spell hidden decrease for some practices
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article covers CMS’s introduction of new G-codes for qualitative drug screening tests, along with the temporary billing guidance that applied during the transition from older laboratory test codes. It is aimed at coders, billing staff, and practices that perform drug screens, especially those working with Medicare claims and CLIA waiver considerations. The discussion also references CMS guidance documents and notes that some private payers may handle the codes differently.
Why This Topic Matters
The article matters because it describes a coding transition that could affect how drug screening services are reported and paid under Medicare. It helps readers understand the scope of CMS’s laboratory fee schedule update and the general compliance context surrounding the change.
Article Sections
-
New G-codes for drug screening tests
Introduces CMS’s updated laboratory test coding for qualitative drug screening and contrasts the new reporting structure with prior coding approaches.
-
Billing guidelines
Summarizes the temporary CMS guidance for reporting drug screening tests during the 2010 transition period, including references to Medicare and CLIA waiver-related billing context.
-
Official resource
Lists CMS source documents and reference materials cited for further review of the fee schedule update and billing explanation.
What You Will Learn
- How CMS changed the reporting framework for qualitative drug screening tests
- What general billing transition guidance accompanied the new laboratory test codes
- Which CMS resources were cited for more information on the code changes
- How the update may affect practices that perform drug screening services
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Billing staff
- Compliance personnel
- Pain management practices
- Clinical laboratory staff
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com