Internal Medicine Coding Alert
Make the Right Flu Code Choice
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Question: What are the differences between 87804 and other influenza codes 90471/G0008? Answer: You should report 87804 (Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay with direct optical observation; influenza) for a microbiology laboratory test that detects influenza in the blood.
Georgia Subscriber
When the internist or other appropriate medical staff administers the flu vaccine to a patient with commercial insurance, you should assign 90471 (Immunization administration [includes percutaneous, intradermal, subcutaneous, intramuscular and jet injections]; one vaccine [single or combination vaccine/toxoid]).
If the patient has Medicare, list G0008 (Administration of influenza virus vaccine when no physician fee schedule service on the same day).
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