How To Use HCPCS Code G0145

HCPCS code G0145 describes a specific screening cytopathology procedure for cervical or vaginal samples. This code is used to identify the collection of samples in preservative fluid, which are then processed using an automated thin layer preparation method. The samples are screened by an automated system and undergo manual rescreening under the supervision of a physician.

1. What is HCPCS G0145?

HCPCS code G0145 is a specific code used to identify the screening cytopathology procedure for cervical or vaginal samples. It is important to note that this code is only applicable for samples collected in preservative fluid and processed using an automated thin layer preparation method. The samples are then screened by an automated system and undergo manual rescreening under physician supervision.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code G0145 is “Screening cytopathology, cervical or vaginal (any reporting system), collected in preservative fluid, automated thin layer preparation, with screening by automated system and manual rescreening under physician supervision.” The short description for this code is “Scr c/v cyto, thin layer, rescr.”

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by collecting cervical or vaginal samples in preservative fluid.
2. The samples are then processed using an automated thin layer preparation method.
3. The automated system screens the samples for any abnormalities.
4. Under the supervision of a physician, the samples undergo manual rescreening to ensure accuracy.

4. When to use HCPCS code G0145

HCPCS code G0145 should be used when performing a screening cytopathology procedure for cervical or vaginal samples. It is specifically used for samples collected in preservative fluid and processed using an automated thin layer preparation method. This code is applicable for both cervical and vaginal samples and can be used with any reporting system.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code G0145, healthcare providers should ensure that the following documentation requirements are met:

• Documentation of the collection of cervical or vaginal samples in preservative fluid
• Documentation of the use of an automated thin layer preparation method
• Documentation of the screening process by an automated system
• Documentation of the manual rescreening process under physician supervision

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code G0145 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1999. It has an effective date of January 01, 2003. There have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code G0145 is subject to the national limitation amount, as indicated by the pricing indicator code 21. The multiple pricing indicator code A indicates that this code is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Medicare and other insurance providers may cover the screening cytopathology procedure described by this code, but coverage may vary depending on individual policies and guidelines.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code G0145 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes a routine cervical screening using an automated thin layer preparation method with manual rescreening under physician supervision.
2. A patient presents with abnormal vaginal bleeding and requires a screening cytopathology procedure for vaginal samples collected in preservative fluid.
3. A physician orders a screening cytopathology procedure for cervical samples collected in preservative fluid for a patient with a history of abnormal Pap smears.
4. A patient undergoes a follow-up screening cytopathology procedure after an initial abnormal result.
5. A healthcare provider performs a screening cytopathology procedure for cervical or vaginal samples collected in preservative fluid as part of a routine gynecological examination.