Noridian has been seeing many denials for COVID lab test codes, U0003 (Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); COVID-19, use of high throughput technologies) and U0005 (Add-on to U0003, U0004 when tests are completed within two calendar days or less of specimen collection). These denials occur when labs tests are being billed to Part B in error from physicians.

We are specifically seeing these errors with Part A inpatient or skilled nursing facility (SNF) beneficiaries. To correct these errors or prevent future denials, Part A and B providers are encouraged to utilize the Noridian Medicare Portal (NMP) to check patient eligibility status of inpatient or SNF for appropriate billing. Please visit our Noridian Medicare Portal page for more information on login, registration, and the user manual.