This month, I review two new codes for 2022 that are directly related to COVID-19 testing in the dental practice:
D0604: Antigen testing for a public health-related pathogen; includes coronavirus
D0605: Antibody testing for a public health-related pathogen; includes coronavirus
Although the American Dental Association (ADA) has implemented new codes for diagnostic testing related to detecting infection of a virus, dental plans have not followed through with creating reimbursement schedules.
More Coding with Kyle:
- Coding with Kyle: D7960—Frenectomy
- Coding with Kyle: D2950—Core buildup
- Coding with Kyle: Overdenture coding after implant placement
Should your office choose to perform diagnostic testing on patients related to viral infections, it is recommended that you obtain professional and legal counsel before doing so. There are many requirements, depending on your state.
In some cases, you may be required to obtain a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) Certificate of Waiver before conducting these tests in office. In addition, you may be required to report each test result to a state data bank so they can log and track testing results. Your practice may be subject to further liability and exposure by performing these tests, so before implementing testing you should take the following steps to make sure you're following laws and regulations:
- Contact your state health department.
- Contact your malpractice insurance carrier.
- Contact your state and/or local dental board.
Additionally, before you decide to implement viral testing into your dental practice, you be aware of important factors such as value and liability which come along with performing these tests.
