CPT Code G0434 (2021)

Effective January 1, 2011 G0434 (Drug screen, other than chromatographic; any number of drug classes, by CLIA waived test or moderate complexity test, per patient encounter) will be used to report
i) very simple testing methods, such as dipsticks, cups, cassettes, and cards, that are interpreted visually, with the assistance of a scanner,
ii) or are read utilizing a moderately complex reader device outside the instrumented laboratory setting (i.e.,non-instrumented devices).
iii) this code is also used to report any other type of drug screen testing using test(s) that are classified as Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) moderate complexity test(s),

Please note:

G0434 includes qualitative drug screen tests that are waived under CLIA as well as dipsticks, cups, cards, cassettes, etc, that are not CLIA waived.
Laboratories with a CLIA certificate of waiver may perform only those tests cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as waived tests. Laboratories with a CLIA certificate of waiver shall bill using the QW modifier.
Laboratories with a CLIA certificate of compliance or accreditation may perform non-waived tests. Laboratories with a CLIA certificate of compliance or accreditation do not append the QW modifier to claim lines.

Only one unit of service for code G0434 can be billed per patient encounter regardless of the number of drug classes tested and irrespective of the use or presence of the QW modifier on claim lines.