Outside Lab

Hi,
If patient came in, and needs to have lab. Lab will be done outside how would I code for it? For example, need to have a lab to test the uric aid and it was done/sent out for lab. What is the best way to code it.

Thanks,
RHina

Mar 28th, 2013 - rphelps 615 1

re: Outside Lab

If sent out you can only charge venipuncture 36415.

Mar 29th, 2013 -

re: Outside Lab

It depends on your state laws and the insurer's policies. This is called "pass through billing." Medicare forbids it (except by hospitals), some commercial insurers allow it. If you bill for the test, then obviously the lab cannot bill for it.