2025 HCPCS code U0001
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Laboratory - CDC 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) real-time RT-PCR diagnostic panel Coronavirus Diagnostic Panel Feed
This HCPCS code represents a real-time RT-PCR test for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the testing (e.g., modifier -25 when performed in conjunction with other services).
Medical necessity for COVID-19 testing is typically established based on symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, exposure to confirmed cases, or as part of public health surveillance programs. Payer-specific guidelines may apply.
The clinical responsibility lies with the laboratory personnel performing the test.The ordering physician is responsible for the medical necessity and appropriate interpretation of the results in the context of the patient's clinical presentation.
In simple words: This code is for a lab test that checks for the virus that causes COVID-19. The lab uses a special technique to look for the virus's genetic material in a sample from your nose, throat, or lungs.
HCPCS code U0001 represents the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) real-time RT-PCR diagnostic panel.This code covers the laboratory analysis to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in various respiratory specimens (nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal swabs, sputum, lower respiratory tract aspirates, bronchoalveolar lavage, nasopharyngeal wash/aspirate, or nasal aspirate) using qualitative nucleic acid detection methods, including multiplex reverse transcription and multiplex amplified probe techniques (like PCR).A positive result suggests active infection but doesn't rule out other infections.
Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath).A nasopharyngeal swab is collected and sent to the lab for testing using the CDC 2019-nCoV real-time RT-PCR panel.Code U0001 is reported., A healthcare facility performs routine screening for COVID-19 on asymptomatic individuals as part of an outbreak control strategy.Nasopharyngeal swabs are obtained, and testing is done using the CDC panel.Code U0001 is reported for each test., During a hospital admission for pneumonia, a bronchoalveolar lavage is performed, and a sample is sent for COVID-19 testing using the CDC panel.The test result helps to guide treatment decisions.Code U0001 is reported.
Complete patient demographics, date of service, specimen type (e.g., nasopharyngeal swab), test result (positive/negative), and the name of the test kit (CDC 2019-nCoV) should be documented.
** This code is specific to the CDC 2019-nCoV real-time RT-PCR panel.Other tests for COVID-19 exist, and their appropriate coding should be determined based on the test performed and documentation.Always consult the most up-to-date HCPCS code set and payer guidelines.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Clinical Microbiology, Infectious Disease, Pathology
- Place of Service:Hospital, Laboratory, Outpatient Center