Wiki Pain Management and Licensed Clinical Social Worker

[celcano]

My physician is exploring the possibility of hiring a licensed clinical social worker to counsel our patient's that are at high risk for medication abuse or addictive behavior. We would administer a "psych test" (CPT 96103). The LCSW would interpret the test and counsel the patient if appropriate. I am having a difficult time getting any definitive answers on what this person can and cannot do. From a Medicare perspective, I can see that the LCSW cannot bill E/M codes nor can 93150 - 93154. Has anyone tried this in their office? Any advice or insight on what we are trying to accomplish?

Thank you!

 

[dwaldman]

Have you checked your local coverage determination policy for the Medicare you bill or other carriers if they cover psych testing done through that particular specialty.