How To Use CPT Code 0147U

CPT 0147U describes a proprietary laboratory analysis (PLA) test that is used to perform a definitive urine drug screen. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0147U.

1. What is CPT Code 0147U?

CPT 0147U is a unique code that represents a specific laboratory test called RiskViewRx®. This test is performed by Newstar Medical Laboratories LLC and is used to conduct a definitive urine drug screen. It utilizes quantitative liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) to identify 85 or more drugs or metabolites in urine specimens. The test also provides a detailed report on possible drug reactions, descriptions of drugs and breakdown products, and sample validation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0147U is: ‘Drug assay, definitive, 85 or more drugs or metabolites, urine, quantitative liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), with drug or metabolite description, comments including sample validation, per date of service.’

3. Procedure

1. The laboratory receives a urine specimen from the patient.
2. The specimen is subjected to quantitative liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) techniques.
3. The LC-MS/MS analysis identifies and quantifies the presence of 85 or more drugs or metabolites in the urine specimen.
4. The laboratory generates a comprehensive report that includes descriptions of the drugs and breakdown products detected, as well as any comments regarding sample validation.
5. The report is provided to the healthcare provider for further analysis and interpretation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 0147U is used for patients who require a definitive urine drug screen that can identify 85 or more drugs or metabolites. This test is often ordered to screen for illicit drug use, monitor medication compliance, and evaluate the presence of various drugs, over-the-counter ingredients, and metabolites. It is important to note that this test is specific to the RiskViewRx® test offered by Newstar Medical Laboratories LLC.

5. When to use CPT code 0147U

CPT code 0147U should be used when a healthcare provider orders the RiskViewRx® test from Newstar Medical Laboratories LLC to perform a definitive urine drug screen. This code should only be used for this specific test and should not be reported with any other CPT codes. It is important to ensure that the test is performed on a single specimen analyzed on a single date of service.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0147U, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for ordering the RiskViewRx® test
• Date of service
• Results of the test, including descriptions of drugs and breakdown products detected
• Comments regarding sample validation

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0147U, it is important to ensure that the test is performed by Newstar Medical Laboratories LLC and that the RiskViewRx® test is specifically ordered. This code should not be reported with any other CPT codes. It is also important to check with the appropriate payer regarding the payment for specimen collection, as some payers may reimburse separately for this service.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0147U was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2020. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider orders the RiskViewRx® test from Newstar Medical Laboratories LLC to perform a definitive urine drug screen for a patient with suspected drug abuse.
2. A physician orders the RiskViewRx® test to monitor a patient’s compliance with prescribed medications.
3. A healthcare provider requests the RiskViewRx® test to evaluate the presence of specific drugs and metabolites in a patient’s urine sample.
4. A clinician orders the RiskViewRx® test to assess possible drug interactions or adverse reactions in a patient.
5. A healthcare provider utilizes the RiskViewRx® test to ensure the authenticity of a urine specimen for forensic purposes.
6. A physician orders the RiskViewRx® test to screen for the presence of drugs and metabolites in a patient’s urine sample during a pre-employment drug screening.
7. A healthcare provider requests the RiskViewRx® test to evaluate the effectiveness of a patient’s drug rehabilitation program.
8. A clinician orders the RiskViewRx® test to assess the presence of drugs and metabolites in a patient’s urine sample for medical research purposes.
9. A physician utilizes the RiskViewRx® test to identify potential drug interactions in a patient with multiple prescribed medications.
10. A healthcare provider orders the RiskViewRx® test to evaluate the presence of drugs and metabolites in a patient’s urine sample during a substance abuse treatment program.