Wiki Routine Lab Screening Codes being attached to Outpatient Preventive Visit

[albridge]

Am I correct in my thinking that the screening labs ordered at a wellness visit (Z codes) should not be coded on that visit, but rather the lab that performs the tests would utilize those Z codes? Billing the office visit for example with the appropriate Z code for the annual wellness exam should be sufficient. I understand the provider should be documenting the labs they ordered and also if they are routine screening labs, etc., but specifically on the coding side of things, those lab Z codes do not need to be listed for the outpatient office visit itself? Trying to find specific guidance in CMS but not having luck without it being vague. Thank you!

 

[Erika1980]

You are correct. You would only use the Z code for the preventive such as Z00.00. Our providers sometimes put the screening codes in the assessment but we remove them. Those are appropriate for the lab to use.