More often, in the absence of symptoms, it would be screening and noncovered. Although a routine urinalysis may serve as a useful broad screen, e.g., as part of a general exam, such screening is not covered by Medicare. As is always the case, the provider who orders the test should determine that the information gained by performing the test adds measurably to the treatment of the patient. Medicare provides coverage for services that are medically reasonable and necessary. The following codes should be used to justify urinalysis at reasonable intervals, possibly every three months to a year, if a tumor has been removed.
Diagnostic codes are to be used at their highest level of specificity.
Fourth and fifth digits should be utilized when they are available. EMC and hard copy claims will be monitored for appropriateness and frequency. Medicare does not provide coverage for tests obtained for screening purposes or for tests obtained without medical necessity. Sox, H.C., Common Diagnostic Test, Use and Interpretation. Henry, J.B., Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods.