Internal Medicine Coding Alert

Question: What are the differences between 87804 and other influenza codes 90471/G0008?

Georgia Subscriber

Answer: You should report 87804 (Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay with direct optical observation; influenza) for a microbiology laboratory test that detects influenza in the blood.
 
When the internist or other appropriate medical staff administers the flu vaccine to a patient with commercial insurance, you should assign 90471 (Immunization administration [includes percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, intramuscular and jet injections]; one vaccine [single or combination vaccine/toxoid]).
 
If the patient has Medicare, list G0008 (Administration of influenza virus vaccine when no physician fee schedule service on the same day).