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Rapid Pathogen Panel Swabbing CPT Code

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Scott:
Hi Everyone.  I have a physician who has started using a new lab test called RPP or Rapid Pathogen Panel.  It's the next iteration of the Rapid Flu Swab, which only returns a (+) or (-) for the flu.  This new test determines if it's bacterial or viral and the exact strain of flu.  The Dr swabs the nasal cavity of the patient, drops the swab into a vial, and overnights it to the lab for testing.  I know the Dr cannot bill for the testing (the lab does that), but I think he can bill for the physical act of swabbing the nasal cavity. Would anyone know the CPT code to use for such a procedure?
Thanks, Scott

Michele:
You could look at cpt code 99000 for handling of specimen for transfer from the office to a laboratory.  It is a billable code but it is not covered by most insurances.

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