PART B CODING COACH: CPT 2010 Preview: Getting Paid Per Drug Class for Test Kits? That's About to End

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps readers understand upcoming Medicare payment changes for drug screen testing and the administrative steps tied to CMS pricing. It is relevant to labs that need to track code transitions, payment updates, and public comment timelines.

Article Sections

1. Drug screen payment issue

   Introduces the Medicare payment concern affecting laboratory drug screen testing and the broader context for the proposed changes.

2. Drug screens aren't equal

   Explains the current coding landscape for drug screen testing and the category of laboratory services involved.

3. Problem

   Describes the existing CPT framework used for billing drug screen services and the related CLIA-waived testing context.

4. G Codes Create Drug Class Division

   Covers the proposed HCPCS G code replacement structure and the CMS rationale for separating categories of drug screening services.

5. Heads up for pay changes

   Addresses anticipated fee schedule effects and the possibility of changes to existing Medicare payment handling.

6. Comment on Pricing Proposal by October

   Summarizes CMS timing for proposed payment postings, public comments, and final determinations.

7. Expect crosswalk

   Notes the Medicare pricing methodologies discussed for the new codes and the general preference reported at the public meeting.