Advanced Search

Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Don't Miss Extra Pay For Nasal Specimen Add-Ons

Published on Fri Oct 15, 2010

Watch for +88311-+88313. You know how to select the proper nasal specimen code, but that's not everything you need to know to capture all the pay you deserve. When your pathologist examines nasal specimens, you should also be on the lookout for common ancillary services and make sure you code for those, too. Capture +88311 for Bony Specimens Nasal specimens often include bone and cartilage: tissue that can require extra work -- and garner extra pay. "You'll frequently see a decalcification procedure in addition to the pathology exam of bony nasal specimens," says R.M. Stainton Jr., MD, president of Doctors' Anatomic Pathology Services in Jonesboro, Ark. Do this: In addition to the primary service, such as nasal turbinate exam (88304, Level III -- Surgical pathology, gross and microscopic examination, bone fragment[s], other than pathologic fracture), you should report +88311 (Decalcification procedure). Don't assume decalcification: You can't charge +83111 just because you know the [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

View All