Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Question: We sent a specimen to the lab with V76.2 (Special screening for malignant neoplasms; cervix) for the Pap smear (Medicare). The ob-gyn also ordered the HPV screen. Medicare denied the HPV screen with V76.2. Is there another code we should use for this screen?

Florida Subscriber

Answer: Medicare does not now reimburse for HPV screening. A bill in Congress dated September 2006 proposed coverage, but it did not pass.

The patient will be responsible for that portion of the bill because this is a noncovered service. The correct code for HPV screening is V73.89 (Screening for other specified viral diseases), but this diagnosis will also get the service denied by Medicare.