How To Code Presumptive Drug Testing (G0477, G0478 & G0479)

G0477, G0478 & G0479 can be used to report presumptive drug testing. The descriptions and reimbursement for Presumptive Drug Testing can be found below.

CPT Codes For Presumptive Drug Testing

Presumptive drug testing (G0477, G0478 & G0479) is used to detect the presence of a drug in a urine sample. A provider with a Certification of Waiver or a Medical Test Site Accredited License performs the test. Findings are reported qualitatively as either positive or negative.

G0479

Description of G0479: Drug test(s), presumptive, any number of drug classes; any number of devices or procedures by instrumented chemistry analyzers utilizing immunoassay, enzyme assay, TOF, MALDI, LDTD, DESI, DART, GHPC, GC mass spectrometry), includes sample validation when performed, per date of service.

G0478

Description of G0478: Drug test(s), presumptive, any number of drug classes; any number of devices or procedures (e.g., immunoassay) read by instrument-assisted direct optical observation (e.g., dipsticks, cups, cards, cartridges), includes sample validation when performed, per date of service.

G0477

Description of G0477: Drug test(s), presumptive, any number of drug classes; any number of devices or procedures (e.g., immunoassay) capable of being read by direct optical observation only (e.g., dipsticks, cups, cards, cartridges), includes sample validation when performed, per date of service.

Reimbursement For Presumptive Testing

Presumptive codes G0477, G0478 & G0479 are eligible for reimbursement when testing is performed in an office, laboratory, or facility setting.  

These HCPCS codes are not eligible for reimbursement for chemical dependency facilities. Reimbursement for G0477, G0478 & G0479 is limited to one daily unit. Only one of the three HCPCS codes may be billed per day.