MedicaidBilling CodesHigh impact
UPDATE- COVID-19 Reimbursible Laboratory Codes
Maryland Medicaid·MD · Pathology, Infectious Disease, Emergency Medicine·Provider Transmittal
Effective date
Feb 4, 2020
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Maryland Medicaid is establishing reimbursement rates for new COVID-19 laboratory testing and specimen collection codes. The policy introduces 8 new billing codes (U0001, U0002, U0003, U0004, 87635, 86328, 86769, G2023, G2024) with FFS reimbursement rates ranging from $23.46 to $100.00, effective between February and April 2020. Laboratories must use the correct code based on testing methodology and specimen source.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must update coding system to include all 9 COVID-19 laboratory codes with their respective FFS reimbursement rates. For U0003 and U0004, configure system to flag when high throughput technologies are used and ensure these codes are NOT used for antibody detection. Laboratory staff must verify specimen collection method (homebound/SNF/HHA vs. other) to determine whether to bill G2023 or G2024. Create internal documentation mapping each code to its testing methodology and appropriate use case. Train all laboratory billing staff on code selection criteria, particularly the distinction between U0003/U0004 (high throughput) versus 87635/U0002 (standard testing). Failure to use correct codes may result in claim denials or recoupment from Maryland Medicaid.