Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Question: We're researching CellSearch coding. Does 0280T describe the test plus interpretation and report?Virginia SubscriberAnswer: Guidelines with 0280T (Cell enumeration using immunologic selection and identification in fluid specimen [e.g., circulating tumor cells in blood]; interpretation and report) instruct you to report this code with 0279T (Cell enumeration using immunologic selection and identification in fluid specimen [e.g., circulating tumor cells in blood]). Coding experts interpret this to mean that 0279T represents the technical component of performing the test and 0280T represents the professional component.Palmetto Medicare indicates that 0280T is appropriate only "in the rare instance when the physician actually performs the service and not the laboratory technologist /laboratory scientist" (MolDx: CellSearch Billing/Coding Guidelines Update; May 1, 2012; http://www.palmettogba.com/palmetto/providers.nsf/docsCat/Jurisdiction%201%20Part%20B~Browse%20by%20Topic~MolDx ). Extras: Be sure to check individual payer policies for specific coding rules. For instance, the Palmetto article instructs its providers to "Enter 'ZBD69' in the comment/narrative field on each claim line [...]