The code will be the industry standard to improve reporting and tracking of antigen tests using immunofluorescent or immunochromatographic technique for the detection of the novel coronavirus.
The new code is 87426 to report infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay technique of SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2.
The update was approved June 24 by the AMA’s CPT editorial panel.
“Moving quickly during this crisis to meet the medical coding needs of the healthcare industry has enhanced the reporting of innovative tools now available to advance medicine’s overarching goals of reducing the COVID-19 disease burden, improving health outcomes and reducing long-term care costs,” said AMA President Susan Bailey, MD.
More articles on healthcare finance:
Hospital care spending hits 11-year low: 5 things to know
Pennsylvania health system cuts 10% of workforce amid pandemic losses
CMS accepting letters of intent for direct contracting model
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.