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In Vitro Chemoresistance and Chemosensitivity Assays
Effective date
Not stated in the notice
Identified
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
In vitro chemoresistance assays, including Extreme Drug Resistance assays, are considered investigational. In vitro chemosensitivity assays, including the Histoculture Drug Response Assay, a fluorescent cytoprint assay, or the ChemoFx assay, are considered investigational. Laboratories that offer laboratory-developed versions of these tests must meet Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) standards and be licensed by CLIA for high-complexity testing.
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What to do
Action · 3 steps
01Billing team: Treat the chemoresistance and chemosensitivity assays named as investigational in this policy as investigational, and note that CPT 81535, 81536, and 86849 are listed under this policy's investigational codes.
02Confirm that the performing laboratory of a laboratory-developed test is licensed by CLIA for high-complexity testing.
03Check each member's specific benefit plan language, because the policy guidelines should not be used in place of it.
Codes mentioned
815358153686849
Original notice
In Vitro Chemoresistance and Chemosensitivity Assays
bcbsms.com · Always check the source before changing claims.
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