E/M Coding Alert - 2013 Issue 1
Part B Coding Coach: CMS Fails to Reimburse 8 New Pathology Codes
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Article Overview
This article covers the 2013 CPT introduction of multi-analyte assay with algorithmic analysis services, CMS’s nonrecognition of those codes for Medicare payment, and the resulting differences between CPT reporting guidance and Medicare billing practice. It is aimed at coders, laboratory billing staff, and compliance professionals who need to understand how the new pathology-related guidance is organized and where the main sources of instruction differ. The article also discusses related appendix material, administrative coding references, and separately reportable specimen preparation services in a broad, non-exhaustive way.
Why This Topic Matters
Understanding the gap between CPT reporting guidance and CMS payment policy is important for avoiding claim denials and aligning laboratory charge capture with payer-specific rules. The article also helps readers locate the relevant CPT resources and related pathology coding categories without relying on premium-only details.
Article Sections
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Recognize MAAA Tests
Introduces the general concept of multi-analyte assay with algorithmic analysis services and explains the kinds of laboratory inputs these services may combine. Also notes the organizational context in which the coding guidance was discussed.
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What’s Included
Summarizes the broad components and related specimen preparation services that may be associated with these services. Mentions accompanying coding guidance and reporting considerations in general terms.
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CPT Says Bill This Way
Describes CPT’s overall reporting approach for these services, including how to think about the primary code and related underlying tests. Also references when an unlisted option may come into play.
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CMS Says Bill That Way
Explains CMS’s separate payment perspective for Medicare billing and contrasts it with CPT reporting guidance. Summarizes the article’s discussion of payer-specific handling for these services.
What You Will Learn
- How CPT introduced and organized multi-analyte assay with algorithmic analysis guidance
- How CMS treated the new pathology-related services for Medicare payment purposes
- How appendix and administrative coding references are presented in the CPT material
- Which broad types of specimen preparation and supporting services are discussed alongside the assays
- How laboratory billing guidance can differ between CPT reporting and CMS payment policy
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Pathology laboratory billing staff
- Compliance professionals
- Revenue cycle teams
- Physician office billing staff
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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