Pathology coding advice
Hi,
When coding pathology charges it is very important to review each specimen both the gross and microscopic when you are coding. Also this simply may be a learning opportunity for your team?? But please take the time to review each specimen and identify the appropriate diagnosis code(s). Please don't just assign "for example the diagnosis melanoma from one specimen" when three were presented for evaluation especially if the other samples are not indicated with such disease.
I will try to explain the blood smear/flow cytometry for my region. The blood smear is done in house at our Central location. The flow will be done at another location. I will share that the blood smear pathology report will actually state something similar to this "flow cytometry was performed and to review their report for additional information". The blood smear probably had code-able diagnostic issues but may have not had the findings the flow cytometry had discovered. If the pathology report is telling me to refer to elsewhere (I will review that report also) to assign diagnosis code(s). Don't just apply the one finding. Please assign all the relevant codes both from the blood smear report and the flow cytometry (ONLY WHEN INDICATED). Examples: Thrombocytopenia, anemia, leukocytosis, lymphocytopenia, leuokocytisis, red cell rouleaux, etc...
Hoping to offer some advice.........
Dana Chock, CPC, CANPC, CHONC, CPMA, CPB
Anesthesia, Pathology, Laboratory & Radiology Coder