Question:
Are methodology specific CPT® codes from the chemistry section applicable to the coding of drugs of abuse testing?
Answer:
Methodology specific CPT codes from the Chemistry section are no longer applicable to the coding of drugs of abuse testing. Do not bill for handling charges associated with sending the specimen to a reference lab. Handling charges and urine collection are not separately billable line items.
CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.
This question was answered in the 2018 edition of Coding Essentials for Laboratories. For more hot topics relating to laboratory services, please view our store, or call us at 1.800.252.1578 ext. 2.