[Coding determinations made as part of the Coding Analysis for Laboratory (CAL) process do not constitute National Coverage Determinations (NCDs), but only serve to provide clarification on codes that are covered under a particular laboratory negotiated NCD.]
The current national coverage determinations (NCDs) for PT and PTT include ICD-9-CM code V43.60, Unspecified joint replaced by other means, in the list of ICD-9-CM Codes Covered by Medicare. It is not evident that this code flows from anything included in the narrative covered indications for these tests. Coverage of this unspecified joint replacement without coverage of specified joint replacements is confusing. We will be reviewing this code more carefully with the benefit of public comment to make a determination if they should be removed from the list of covered diagnoses.
