Title: Module 2 Introduction: (CU3 M2) Pathology and Laboratory
Course: SkillsCom CRS 210 14.0 > Section: Credit Unit 3 Module 2

Next stop in studying medical coding is for Pathology and Laboratory! The codes will be for explaining and identifying a myriad of terms, diagnostic procedures, lab results and medical necessities of the Pathology and Laboratory services, all of which make up an integral and prevalent portion of daily medical coding.

The American Academy of Professional Coders (2014) stated that:

In this chapter, we will discuss CPT®, ICD-9-CM, and HCPCS Level II codes related to pathology and laboratory services. These services apply to all parts of the body and nearly all disease processes, and are defined by the process used to perform the service, or by the substance analyzed (the analyte). CPT® codes are found primarily in the Pathology and Laboratory chapter. Most (not all) codes have both a professional and a technical component (discussed below). ICD-9-CM codes may come from nearly any chapter; we will focus on codes most specific to testing. We will cover some of the rules for assigning codes, rather than providing a comprehensive overview of codes. There is a small number of HCPCS Level II codes used for specific services; we will address these, also (p. 577).

American Academy of Professional Coders. (2014). Medical Coding Training: CPC ® (13th ed.). Salt Lake City, UT: Author.

Course Outcomes:

- Demonstrate mastery of procedure coding in both CPT and HCPCS coding manuals.

Module Outcomes:

- Define terms and concepts specific to pathology and laboratory coding
- Apply ICD-9-CM Guidelines for assigning codes for diagnostic services, and identify specific codes helpful in describing the medical necessity and outcomes of specific lab tests
- Select CPT® and HCPCS Level II codes describing the services and procedures for pathology and laboratory services
- Apply CPT® and HCPCS Level II modifiers, when appropriate