Question:
In the answer to last week’s question, you provided information about the importance of coding specificity. Does this apply only to the ordering physicians or also to pathologists?
Answer:
Pathologists will need to document the clinical indication in the interpretation report so that coders can choose the most appropriate and specific code available. The local coverage determinations (LCDs) created by Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) list covered diagnosis codes, and these will prompt coders to query the pathologist or ordering physician for clarification.