All other chemistry tests must be ordered individually with medical necessity documented for each test. When ordering tests from an outside laboratory, the proper ICD-9 codes must be included on the requisition. This requirement was included in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997. Whether the test is ordered at an unusually high frequency. Tests have been identified for limited coverage in order to curb what HCFA considers to be overutilization.
Medical necessity can vary from carrier to carrier.
Contact the carrier in your area for specific information.