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Urology Coding Alert

Lab Tests:

81000-81003 Know-How Requires a Closer Look at Urinalysis Methods

Published on Wed Apr 11, 2012

Be sure you have the right code, whether you test for 1 element or all 10.Urinalysis may seem like a simple test, but the not-so-simple requirements for performing this test can help you understand which code applies to your case and when you should append modifier QW (CLIA waived test).Start With the Common FactorsBy the nature of their specialty, urologists perform a significant number of urinalysis (UA) tests, says Alice Kater, CPC, PCS, coder for Urology Associates of South Bend, Ind. To ensure proper coding, review the requirements for each of the following codes:81000, Urinalysis, by dip stick or tablet reagent for bilirubin, glucose, hemoglobin, ketones, leukocytes, nitrite, pH, protein, specific gravity, urobilinogen, any number of these constituents; non-automated, with microscopy81001, ... automated, with microscopy81002, ... non-automated, without microscopy81003, ...automated, without microscopy.The test: The dip stick (or chem-strip) method involves a strip with squares, which the tester quickly dips into [...]
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