2025 HCPCS code G0148
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Procedures / Professional Services - Miscellaneous Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services G0008-G9987 Feed
Automated screening of cytopathological smears (cervical or vaginal) with manual rescreening.
Medical necessity for G0148 must be established based on established guidelines for cervical and vaginal cancer screening.This may include routine screening based on age and risk factors, follow-up after an abnormal result, or evaluation of specific symptoms. Documentation should clearly support the medical rationale for performing the test.
Clinical responsibility for this code typically falls on the laboratory performing the test, under the supervision of a qualified pathologist or physician. They are responsible for specimen collection, processing, analysis (both automated and manual), and reporting of results.Accurate interpretation and communication of findings to the ordering clinician are crucial for appropriate patient management.
In simple words: This code represents a lab test that screens for cervical or vaginal cell abnormalities using a computer system and a lab technician. A sample is collected, analyzed by a computer, and then double-checked by a person to ensure accurate results.
Screening of cytopathology smears of the cervix or vagina, performed by an automated system with manual rescreening. This involves collecting a specimen from the patient's cervix, endocervical canal, or vagina.The automated screening utilizes computer analysis of digital images to identify cells, followed by manual examination under a microscope to detect any abnormal changes and confirm the automated results.
Example 1: A 30-year-old female patient undergoes a routine gynecological examination, including a Pap smear. The sample is processed using an automated system and then manually rescreened, resulting in a normal result., A 50-year-old female patient with a history of abnormal Pap smears undergoes a follow-up Pap smear. The automated and manual rescreening identifies atypical cells, prompting further investigation with colposcopy., A 25-year-old female patient presents with abnormal vaginal bleeding. A Pap smear is collected and analyzed using the automated system and manual rescreening. The result shows precancerous changes, leading to a referral for treatment.
Documentation for G0148 should include the following: 1. Patient demographics and medical history 2. Reason for the test (e.g., routine screening, follow-up) 3. Date and method of specimen collection 4. Type of automated system used 5. Results of both the automated and manual rescreening 6. Interpretation of the results by a qualified professional 7. Any associated diagnoses or procedures, such as colposcopy or biopsy, if applicable.
- Specialties:Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pathology, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Independent Clinic, other