ICD-9 codes for performing T&S on transport baby moms?

[Vaatha]

We perform a Type and Screen on all maternal specimens for transport babies sent to our NICU. If we do not receive a maternal specimen, we do the antibody screen on the infant specimen. Billing is telling us that since these maternal specimens are registered as outpatients, we need an ICD-9 code for billing when we order using CPOE (Clinical Physician Order Entry) in Cerner.

Does any other lab do this, and which code do you use?

thanks,

Darcy

[LaraT23]

Why can't you order a T&S on the baby and comment, that you used the maternal specimen? Seems like that should work. Since the mother isn't technically a patient, you probably can't order anything on her at that point. Seems like billing should help you out with the ICD-9's. Those are usually provided by the ordering phyisician, in this case, the baby's physician. Anyways, I would avoid outpatient on moms if at all possible, unless you get waivers on everyone.