March 2004 pages 4-6
Coding Communication:Cytopathology: Pap Smears
An estimated 55 million gynecologic cytopathology
examinations (Pap tests) are performed annually
in the United States. In recent years, the
methods for screening Pap smears have improved
due to advances in the technology for preparing
and processing Pap smear slides. In 2003, several
changes were made to the cytopathology series
of CPT codes to more adequately reflect current
cytopathology screening and rescreening procedures
resulting from new automated methods.
Prior to 2003, the existing codes did not adequately
describe the new liquid-based slide preparation
systems when used in combination with
primary screening...
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