How To Use HCPCS Code G2023

HCPCS code G2023 describes the procedure for specimen collection for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), also known as coronavirus disease (COVID-19), from any specimen source. This code is used to identify the specific service provided by healthcare providers in collecting specimens for testing and diagnosis of COVID-19.

1. What is HCPCS G2023?

HCPCS code G2023 is a specific code used to identify the procedure of specimen collection for COVID-19. It is important for medical coders to correctly assign this code when documenting the collection of specimens for COVID-19 testing.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code G2023 is “Specimen collection for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (coronavirus disease [COVID-19]), any specimen source.” This description clearly indicates that the code is used for collecting specimens from any source for COVID-19 testing.

3. Procedure

1. Prepare the necessary equipment and supplies for specimen collection, including personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns.
2. Verify the patient’s identity and explain the procedure to them.
3. Select the appropriate specimen collection method based on the patient’s condition and the specimen source. This may include nasopharyngeal swabs, oropharyngeal swabs, saliva samples, or other specimen types.

4. When to use HCPCS code G2023

HCPCS code G2023 should be used when healthcare providers collect specimens from any source for COVID-19 testing. This code is applicable in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. It is important to note that this code is specifically for specimen collection and not for the actual testing or analysis of the collected specimens.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code G2023, healthcare providers need to document the following information:

• Date and time of specimen collection
• Specimen source (e.g., nasopharyngeal swab, oropharyngeal swab, saliva sample)
• Patient’s information, including name and unique identifiers
• Any relevant details or observations related to the specimen collection procedure

Providers should ensure that the documentation is accurate, complete, and supports the medical necessity of the specimen collection for COVID-19 testing.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code G2023 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on March 01, 2020. It has an effective date of May 12, 2023, and was terminated on May 11, 2023. The termination of this code indicates that it is no longer valid for use after the specified date.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

Medicare and other insurance providers may cover the specimen collection procedure represented by HCPCS code G2023. The pricing indicator code for this code is 21, which means the price is subject to a national limitation amount. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, indicating that the code is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code G2023 should be billed:

1. A healthcare provider collects a nasopharyngeal swab specimen from a patient for COVID-19 testing.
2. A clinic collects an oropharyngeal swab specimen from a symptomatic patient for COVID-19 testing.
3. A laboratory receives a saliva sample collected by a healthcare provider for COVID-19 testing.
4. A hospital collects a sputum specimen from a patient with suspected COVID-19 for diagnostic purposes.
5. A healthcare provider collects a specimen from a patient’s wound for COVID-19 testing.