Advanced Search

Gastroenterology Coding Alert

READER QUESTION:

Get Your Gastro Paid for H. Pylori Analysis

Published on Sat Oct 09, 2004

Question: Our gastroenterologist performs tests for H. pylori using a C-14 breath analysis. We used to get an off-site lab to analyze the samples, but the office recently bought a liquid scintillation counter so the gastro could perform his own analyses. We're wondering how to report the H. pylori breath test and the analysis.

Georgia Subscriber
 
Answer: Offices that perform their own H. pylori tests and interpret the results can report two codes for the procedure. When your gastro performs the analysis and interprets the results, you should:

report 78267 (Urea breath test, C-14; acquisition for analysis) for the test.

report 78268 (... analysis) for the analysis.

Warning: Use caution when reporting both the C-14 breath test and the analysis on the same claim. If you have the same date of service for both services, some payers will not accept both 78267 and 78268.

Good practice: If there is any uncertainty before filing a claim dealing with H. Pylori tests or interpretations, check with the carrier first to avoid a rejection.
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

Gastroenterology Coding Alert

View All