Skip to main content

QW Modifier Requirement and Claims Reprocessing for Some CLIA Procedure Codes

Last updated on

Note: Texas Medicaid managed care organizations (MCOs) must provide all medically necessary, Medicaid-covered services to Medicaid members who are enrolled in their MCO. Administrative procedures, such as prior authorization, precertification, referrals, and claims and encounter data filing, may differ from traditional Medicaid (fee-for-service) and from MCO to MCO. Providers should contact the member’s specific MCO for details.

The following Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) laboratory procedure codes require the QW modifier:

  • Effective for dates of service on or after June 29, 2023, procedure code 87420 requires the QW modifier. Claims submitted with procedure code 87420 for dates of service from June 29, 2023, through February 22, 2024, may be reprocessed.
  • Effective for dates of service on or after September 20, 2023, procedure code 86769 requires the QW modifier. Claims submitted with procedure code 86769 for dates of service from September 20, 2023, through February 22, 2024, may be reprocessed.
  • Effective for dates of service on or after October 19, 2023, procedure code 81514 requires the QW modifier. Claims submitted with procedure code 81514 for dates of service from October 19, 2023, through February 22, 2024, may be reprocessed.

The reprocessed claims may result in additional payment that will be reflected on future Remittance and Status (R&S) Reports.

For more information, call the TMHP Contact Center at 800-925-9126 or the TMHP-CSHCN Services Program Contact Center at 800-568-2413.