Wiki Routine Labs Diagnosis?

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There is no diagnosis for routine labs. A lab test is performed either as screening (screening Z code), or because a patient has symptoms (symptom code), or because they are on medications for a chronic problem (Z51.81, Z79 code for the drug), or for a chronic condition receiving no medication (code the condition). You need to use the code that fits the reason for the test.
 
Hi,

I know this is an old thread, but we see quite a lot of patient's come in for problem oriented visits and because the patient is new and establishing care, provider will order routine labs & use Z13.9 (Encounter for screening, unspecified) as the code. This typically gets denied. Based on the guidelines, "For encounters for routine laboratory/radiology testing in the absence of any signs, symptoms, or associated diagnosis, assign Z01.89, Encounter for other specified special examinations", since the lab tests ordered are not for the actual condition patient is presenting for, would it be appropriate to report Z01.89 for routine labs on non routine visits? Thanks :)
 
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