Primary Care Coding Alert

Question: When we perform waived lab tests, such as strep screens and accuchecks, should I use modifier -QW?

Colorado Subscriber

Answer: Yes, when reporting a waived test, you should report the procedure code appended with modifier -QW (CLIA waived test). The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) groups laboratory tests into different categories. When CLIA grants a test waived status, a physician may perform the test without a higher-level certification. Modifier -QW informs the payer that the test was done using an instrument that meets the CLIA-waived status. You should also make sure to put your CLIA number on the claim form.