How To Use CPT Code 88152

CPT 88152 describes the procedure for analyzing cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides using manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening under physician supervision. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 88152?

CPT 88152 can be used to describe the process of analyzing cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides. This procedure involves manual screening of the slides by a lab analyst, followed by computer-assisted rescreening under the supervision of a physician. The purpose of this test is to study and diagnose diseases using cells obtained from the cervix or vagina.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 88152 is: ‘Cytopathology, slides, cervical or vaginal; with manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening under physician supervision.’

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst performs the technical steps to manually analyze a cytopathology slide obtained from the cervix or vagina.
2. The same slide is then rescreened using computer-assisted technology.
3. The entire procedure is performed under the supervision of a physician.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 88152 is used when initial manual screening of a cervical or vaginal cytopathology slide shows an abnormality that requires confirmation through computer-assisted rescreening. This procedure is typically ordered for female patients as part of an annual exam, for patients with a family history of cervical cancer, or for patients experiencing pain or discharge from the vagina.

5. When to use CPT code 88152

CPT code 88152 should be used when there is a need for manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening of cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides. It is important to note that this code is specifically for the technical procedure and does not include the professional interpretation by a physician.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 88152, the following documentation is required:

• Indication of the need for manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening
• Date and time of the procedure
• Supervising physician’s name and signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 88152, ensure that the procedure is performed under the supervision of a physician. It is important to note that separate codes exist for the professional interpretation of abnormal Pap smears. Additionally, different codes may be required based on the specific method and requirements of the cytopathology screening procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 88152 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1998. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst manually screens a cervical cytopathology slide and then performs computer-assisted rescreening under the supervision of a physician.
2. A technician analyzes a vaginal cytopathology slide using manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening, as directed by a physician.
3. A lab performs the procedure of manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening on cervical and vaginal cytopathology slides under the supervision of a physician.
4. A physician oversees the process of manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening for cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides performed by a lab analyst.
5. A lab technician conducts the procedure of manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening on cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides, following the guidance of a physician.
6. A cytopathologist supervises the manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening of cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides performed by a lab analyst.
7. A lab analyst performs the technical steps of manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening on cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides, under the supervision of a physician.
8. A technician conducts the procedure of manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening on cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides, as directed by a physician.
9. A lab performs the process of manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening on cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides, under the supervision of a physician.
10. A physician oversees the manual screening and computer-assisted rescreening of cervical or vaginal cytopathology slides performed by a lab analyst.