Wiki Ear swab culture

[melisbc]

We have always used 87070 when sending an ear swab for aerobic bacterial culture...starting this month the lab we use is changing this code to 87186 stating Medicare requires we use it. However Medicare is denying the code due to "not medically necessary", has anyone else received this? Doesn't 87070 include sensitivity?

Any help is appreciated! thank you

Melissa V