Don't be confused with the proposed CPT and 'G' codes
. Two new codes have been proposed for urine drug testing in 2011; as such, you might need some help sorting it all out. Read on to get a preview of the CPT 2011 codes and a rundown of how current policy meshes with your lab's drug screen test method.
CPT 2011 codes close loopholes
Recently, CMS provided a sneak peak at new lab test codes for the coming year. You will need to be familiar with the two new codes for drug testing in 2011.
Follow present drug screen rules
Until new codes take effect in 2011, you will need to continue to report drug screening tests using G0430 and G0431 as well as the following codes: 80100, 80101.
CMS came up with the two G codes in 2010 to operate in place of and alongside existing CPT code 80100 and 80101 as some providers were not using those codes correctly.
Heads up for the coming year's coverage changes
Once 801XX is active, watch out for CMS instruction to drop G0430 and G0430-QW. Less certain is the fate of G0431. Even though GXXX1 will most likely replace G0431 for multiple drug class test kits, it is not clear if G0431 will remain active for individual drug class tests run on chemistry analyzers.
Fort all the new CPT 2011 lab codes, sign up for a one-stop Medical Coding website. Such a site comes stocked with CPT code lookups and online CPT Assistant to help you code right for your practice.