Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Hint: Concentrate on intent of the test for better coding efficiency. When your gastroenterologist performs a fecal occult blood test (FOBT), your key to selecting the right code is identifying the purpose of the test. Our strategies that follow will guide you to FOBT claims success. Reserve 82270 For Colorectal Cancer Screening If your gastroenterologist is providing a take-home FOBT to the patient for the purpose of colorectal cancer screening, you need to report the procedure with 82270 (Blood, occult, by peroxidase activity [e.g., guaiac], qualitative; feces, consecutive collected specimens with single determination, for colorectal neoplasm screening [i.e., patient was provided 3 cards or single triple card for consecutive collection]). The patient carries the test cards and obtains consecutive samples himself and then returns with the cards or mails the cards back to the office. You should report the FOBT on the day the sample cards are received in your [...]