Medical Billing for TB Screenings Made Easy

TB is in the news more and more and if you aren’t already seeing an increase in TB screenings, it’s likely your practice could experience it in the future. If you have a medical billing claim involving a patient that is at an increased risk for tuberculosis (TB) infection or is already having symptoms, a TB screening can be performed. If your practice runs these tests, be aware that in many cases, you can get reimbursed for the test as a medical necessity.

When processing the medical billing for a TB skin test (86580) or blood test (86480) due to pulmonary TB symptoms or known TB exposure or risk. The ordering diagnosis should be V74.1 (Special screening examination for bacterial and spirochetal diseases; pulmonary tuberculosis),and be sure to back up the need for the additional test with ironclad documentation.

If you can show the medical necessity for the procedure and the history of the patient leading up to the reason for the test, you should be able to get reimbursed for any additional testing as a necessary procedure as part of the whole care for the patient. If you’re tired of keeping up with the changes in the medical billing industry that directly affect the reimbursements your practice is getting, it may be time to consider outsourcing your medical billing claims to a professional company that get you the maximum reimbursements as quickly as possible. Look into outsourcing today and reap the rewards.

View all Articles by: Melissa Clark, CCS-P