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Pediatric Coding Alert

Lab Testing:

Consider Urinalysis Method Before Selecting From 81000-81003 Series

Published on Tue May 08, 2012

Be sure you have the right code, whether you test for 1 element or all 10.Urinalysis may seem like a simple test commonly performed in pediatric practices, but the not-so-simple requirements for performing this test can help you understand which code applies to your case and when you should append modifier QW (CLIA waived test).Start With the Common FactorsTo ensure proper coding of urinalysis tests, review the requirements for each of the following codes:81000, Urinalysis, by dip stick or tablet reagent for bilirubin, glucose, hemoglobin, ketones, leukocytes, nitrite, pH, protein, specific gravity, urobilinogen, any number of these constituents; non-automated, with microscopy81001, ... automated, with microscopy81002, ... non-automated, without microscopy81003, ...automated, without microscopy.The test: The dip stick (or chem-strip) method involves a strip with squares, which the tester quickly dips into the urine. After a specified time the squares change color as each reacts to a different substance in the urine. [...]
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