by Evan M. Gwilliam, DC MBA CPC CCPC CPC-I QCC MCS-P CPMA CMHP AAPC Fellow
Jan 24th, 2019
Question
Which code should I use for a lab interpretation fee? Specifically, I have ordered a female hormone saliva test, and would like to charge a fee for time spent on the interpretation and consult.
Answer
This type of service generally does not involve a third party, so it may be acceptable to just bill the patient with an internal code you created for this purpose. However, you might consider the HCPCS codes S3650 or S3652 if they apply to the situation you are describing. Unfortunately, these codes do not allow you to add the modifier 26 to separate the professional component of the service from the technical component.
Perhaps the best option for you is to use 99199 "Unlisted special service, procedure or report."
About Evan M. Gwilliam, DC MBA CPC CCPC CPC-I QCC MCS-P CPMA CMHP AAPC Fellow
Dr. Gwilliam is a licensed chiropractic physician with a master's in business administration. He is also a certified professional coding instructor, compliance specialist, and medical auditor. He has published articles in multiple trade journals and travels the country to deliver training to physicians and staff on coding, documentation, and compliance.