Which code is used for a standard throat culture?

Which code is used for a standard throat culture?

• A. 87010
• B. 87070
• C. 87320
• D. 87184

Answer: (B)

The code used for a standard throat culture is 87070. This code specifically describes the process of isolating and identifying organisms from a throat swab, which is a common laboratory procedure used to diagnose infections such as strep throat. In this context, 87070 encompasses both the culture of the throat sample and the initial identification of organisms that may be present. It is crucial for properly capturing the clinical scenario of a throat culture, emphasizing the significance of performing a culture to determine the causative agent of a throat infection. The other code options correspond to different types of laboratory tests or processes that do not specifically relate to a standard throat culture. This distinction reinforces the importance of utilizing the correct code based on the type of specimen and the procedure performed, ensuring accurate coding and billing.

The code used for a standard throat culture is 87070. This code specifically describes the process of isolating and identifying organisms from a throat swab, which is a common laboratory procedure used to diagnose infections such as strep throat.

In this context, 87070 encompasses both the culture of the throat sample and the initial identification of organisms that may be present. It is crucial for properly capturing the clinical scenario of a throat culture, emphasizing the significance of performing a culture to determine the causative agent of a throat infection.

The other code options correspond to different types of laboratory tests or processes that do not specifically relate to a standard throat culture. This distinction reinforces the importance of utilizing the correct code based on the type of specimen and the procedure performed, ensuring accurate coding and billing.