April Update of CLIA-Waived Tests, Billing Codes

The April 4, 2014, update to the list of tests waived under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) includes eight new tests approved by the Food and Drug Administration. When billing for these tests, you must use the QW modifier. This enables your local Medicare contractors to recognize the code as waived. The April update, plus a complete list of CLIA-waived tests and devices, can be found in Transmittal 2919 (Change Request 8705) at www.cms.gov under “Transmittals.” The implementation date is July 7, 2014. CPT CODE EFFECTIVE DATE DECRIPTION 87880QW July 29, 2013 Poly Stat Strep A Flip Test G0434QW Aug. 1, 2013 Alere iScreen DX Multi-Drugs of Abuse Dip Test G0434QW Sept. 10, 2013 Alere iScreen DX Single Dip Card 85018QW Dec. 12, 2013 Alere HemoPoint H2 System 87804QW Dec. 13, 2013 Sofia Analyzer and Influenza A+B FIA G0434QW Feb. 21, 2014 Ultimate Analysis Cup Inc. UA Cups Test Cards G0434QW Feb. 21, 2014 Ultimate Analysis Cup Inc. UA Cups 83516QW Feb. 27, 2014 Rapid Pathogen Screening Inc. InflammaDry