Addition of the QW Modifier to HCPCS Code 87426 CR11927

This article informs you about the addition of the QW modifier to HCPCS code 87426 [(Infectious agent antigen detection by immunoassay technique, (eg, enzyme immunoassay [EIA], enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], immunochemiluminometric assay [IMCA]) qualitative or semiquantitative, multiple-step method; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (eg, SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 [COVID-19]].

The official instruction, CR 11927, issued to your MAC regarding this change is available at https://www.cms.gov/files/document/r10231OTN.pdf.

The Medicare contractor shall permit the use of code 87426QW for claims submitted by facilities with a valid, current CLIA certificate of waiver with dates of service on or after June 25, 2020.