Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Question: Our physician performed a patch test for allergy testing. How can we report this service? How can we report if the testing was done using multiple patches?

Ohio Subscriber

Answer: When your physician performs a patch test, you report the test with 95044 (Patch or application test[s] [specify number of tests]).

Count the numbers of tests: You will calculate the number of units of the code based on the number of tests done (usually one test per allergen). So, you will need to count out the number of patches that your clinician is applying and report the appropriate number of tests. You report the number of units in block 24G of the CMS-1500 form.

Example: If your clinician placed a total of 6 patches on the patient’s back, you will bill for 6 units on the claim form and provide documentation that your clinician did that number of allergy tests to support your claim.

Tip: It is best to educate your clinician and your staff. It is important to know the number of tests that you raise the claim for. If you count less, you lose the deserved payment. If you count in excess, you can face a denial.