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October 28, 2015

BLM Gene Analysis Coding and Billing Guidelines (CM00057)

Effective for dates of service on and after July 30, 2014.

The clinical diagnosis of Bloom (BLM syndrome (BSyn), characterized by severe pre and postnatal growth deficiency, highly characteristic sparseness of subcutaneous fat tissue in infants and children, is confirmed through cytogenetic testing. Molecular genetic testing identifies BLM gene mutation carriers at risk for conceiving offspring with the disease. Therefore, BLM genetic testing is not a Medicare benefit and is a statutorily excluded service. In addition to single gene testing, MolDX will also deny panels of tests that include the BLM gene as a statutorily excluded service.

To receive a BLM gene test service denial, please submit the following claim information:

  • CPT code 81209
  • An Advance Beneficiary Notice of Non-Coverage (ABN)External website is not required for statutorily excluded services.
    • For a voluntary issued ABN, append with HCPCS modifier GX
    • To indicate a valid ABN is on file for a known statutorily excluded service, append with HCPCS modifier GY
  • Select the appropriate diagnosis for the patient
  • Enter the appropriate identifier adjacent to the CPT code in the comment/narrative field for the following claim field/types:
    • Part A: Loop 2300 NTE 01 (electronic claim); Form Locator 80 (paper claim)
    • Part B: Loop 2400 or SV101-7 (electronic claim); Item 19 (paper claim)

Reference: Sec. 1862 (1)(A) Statutory Exclusion covers diagnostic testing "except for items and services that are not reasonable and necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of illness or injury or to improve the functioning of a malformed body member,…"

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