Question:
Which test and code are recommended for reporting hypo- or hyperthyroid states?
Answer:
According to the National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI), free thyroxine (CPT® code 84439) is generally considered to be a better measure of the hypothyroid or hyperthyroid state than total thyroxine (CPT code 84436). If free thyroxine is measured, it is not considered appropriate to measure total thyroxine with or without thyroid hormone binding ratio (CPT code 84479).
Also, NCCI does not permit payment of CPT codes 84436 or 84479 with CPT code 84439.
CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.
This question was answered in the September edition of our Laboratory Compliance Manager. For more hot topics relating to laboratory services, please view our store, or call us at 1.800.252.1578 ext. 2.