Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Question: Can we bill 88104 and 88108 together for the same non-gyn cytology specimen if the lab prepares and the pathologist diagnoses both direct and concentrated smears? Maryland SubscriberAnswer: The answer to your question depends on the payer. Long-standing AMA instruction allows you to report each cytology preparation as a distinct service. In other words, if the pathologist needs to examine both a direct smear (88104, Cytopathology, fluids, washings or brushings, except cervical or vaginal; smears with interpretation) and a concentrated smear (88108 Cytopathology, concentration technique, smears and interpretation [e.g., Saccomanno technique]) to reach a diagnosis, you can bill separately for each preparation.Beware Medicare: CMS has established different criteria for billing these codes, which you'll need to follow for Medicare or any payers that use the same rules. The Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) edits bundle codes within the 88104-88112 group, meaning that you cannot bill different preparations together for the [...]