Question:
Can I report code P9604 for trips that average around 30 miles?
Answer:
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) states code P9604 should be used in areas where average trips are less than 20 miles round trip. The fee will be pro-rated for more than one specimen collection at the same address and for stops at the homes of Medicare and non-Medicare patients. CMS uses the federal mileage rate and a laboratory technician’s time of $17.66 an hour, including overhead. Contractors have the option of establishing a flat rate in excess of the minimum of $10 if local conditions warrant.
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