How To Use HCPCS Code G0143

HCPCS code G0143 describes a specific screening cytopathology procedure for the cervix or vagina. This code is used to identify the collection of cervical or vaginal cells in a preservative fluid, which are then prepared using an automated thin layer technique. The collected cells are manually screened and rescreened by a cytotechnologist under the supervision of a physician. This code was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1999, and has been in use since then.

1. What is HCPCS G0143?

HCPCS code G0143 is a specific code that represents the screening cytopathology procedure for the cervix or vagina. It is used to identify the collection of cells from the cervix or vagina, which are then prepared using an automated thin layer technique. The collected cells are manually screened and rescreened by a cytotechnologist under the supervision of a physician. This code is used to accurately report and bill for this specific procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code G0143 is “Screening cytopathology, cervical or vaginal (any reporting system), collected in preservative fluid, automated thin layer preparation, with manual screening and rescreening by cytotechnologist under physician supervision.” The short description for this code is “Scr c/v cyto,thinlayer,rescr.”

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider collects cervical or vaginal cells using a swab or brush.
2. The collected cells are placed in a preservative fluid to maintain their integrity.
3. The cells in the preservative fluid are then processed using an automated thin layer preparation technique.
4. A cytotechnologist manually screens the prepared cells under the supervision of a physician.
5. If necessary, the cytotechnologist may rescreen the cells to ensure accurate results.

4. When to use HCPCS code G0143

HCPCS code G0143 should be used when reporting the screening cytopathology procedure for the cervix or vagina. This code is specifically for cases where the cells are collected in a preservative fluid and prepared using an automated thin layer technique. The manual screening and rescreening of the cells by a cytotechnologist under physician supervision is also included in this code. It is important to use this code when billing for this specific procedure to ensure accurate reporting and reimbursement.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code G0143, healthcare providers should ensure that the following documentation requirements are met:

• Documentation of the collection of cervical or vaginal cells in a preservative fluid
• Documentation of the use of an automated thin layer preparation technique
• Documentation of the manual screening and rescreening of the cells by a cytotechnologist under physician supervision

These documentation requirements are essential for accurate billing and reimbursement for the screening cytopathology procedure.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code G0143 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1999. Since its addition, there have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code. This code has remained unchanged since its inclusion in the coding system.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code G0143 is subject to the national limitation amount, as indicated by the pricing indicator code 21. This means that the price for this service is determined by a national limit set by Medicare. The multiple pricing indicator code A indicates that this code is not applicable for multiple pricing methodologies. Medicare and other insurance providers may cover the screening cytopathology procedure represented by this code, but coverage may vary depending on individual policies and guidelines.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code G0143 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes a routine cervical screening using an automated thin layer preparation technique, with manual screening and rescreening by a cytotechnologist under physician supervision.
2. A patient presents with abnormal cervical or vaginal symptoms, and a screening cytopathology procedure is performed to evaluate the presence of any abnormalities.
3. A patient with a history of cervical or vaginal abnormalities undergoes a follow-up screening cytopathology procedure to monitor their condition.
4. A healthcare provider performs a screening cytopathology procedure as part of a routine gynecological examination for a patient.
5. A patient undergoes a screening cytopathology procedure as part of a preoperative evaluation for a gynecological surgery.