Laboratory and Pathology Documentation Requirements

It is expected that patient's medical records reflect the need for care/services provided. The listing of records is not all inclusive. Providers must ensure all necessary records are submitted to support services rendered. They may include:

Check
Brief Description
Beneficiary identification, date of service, and provider of the service should be clearly identified on each page of the submitted documentation
Diagnostic/other tests and results
Physician/Non Physician (NPP) order or evidence of intent to Order
Physician referral (prescription, treatment or diagnostic test)
Signed requisitions for lab services
Clinical information supplied to the lab by the ordering physician, including diagnosis codes and narratives
Documentation from the prescribing/ordering physician
History and Physical reports (include medical history and current list of medications)
Interpretive statement, which specifically explains the test results and how it will be used in the beneficiary's care
Documentation that supports the clinical significance of the test performed
You may utilize the "Dear Ordering Referring Physician" letter to obtain records from an outside facility. The letter is located within our Medical Review Educational Resources.
Documentation supporting the diagnosis code(s) required for the item(s) billed
Documentation to support the code(s) and modifier(s) billed
List of all non-standard abbreviations or acronyms used, including definitions
Any other supporting/pertinent documentation

Multiple CMS contractors are charged with completing reviews of medical records. See Identifying Which Entity Completed a Part B Claim Review for detailed information about each of these contractors.

Documentation Submission

Once a provider compiles all the necessary documentation, it is important to submit them to the appropriate contractor according to the request received. Select the request below to view the appropriate submission instructions.

View the Laboratory webpage for more information and resources.

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Documentation Requirements Disclaimer

The documentation requirements contents/references provided within this section were prepared as educational tools and are not intended to grant rights or impose obligations. Use of these documents are not intended to take the place of either written law or regulations.

The listing of records is not all inclusive. Providers must ensure all necessary records are submitted to support services rendered.

Important that physician intent, physician decision and physician recommendation to provide services derived clearly from the medical record and properly authenticated.

The submission of these records shall not guarantee payment as all applicable coverage requirements must be met.