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Laboratory Tests for Depression and Other Psychiatric Disorders (CPB 0306, reviewed 2026-06-08)
Aetna·Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine +1 more·Behavioral Health
Effective date
Jun 8, 2026
We identified it
Aug 16, 2026
Summary
Aetna has updated its psychiatric laboratory testing policy to classify multiple gene expression and DNA methylation tests as experimental/investigational and non-covered. The dexamethasone suppression test (DST) remains covered ONLY for differentiating psychotic depression from schizophrenia when ordered by a psychiatrist; all other DST indications are now non-covered. MindX Blood Tests, TruD MDS tests, microRNA measurements, and immune ratio panels are all denied for psychiatric indications effective immediately.
Action Required
Effective immediately (2026-06-08): Billing team must update system rules to deny all claims for CPT 80420 (DST) except when ordered by psychiatrist for psychotic depression vs. schizophrenia differentiation; all other DST indications must be denied. Implement automated denials for all MindX Blood Test codes (0290U, 0291U, 0292U, 0293U, 0294U, 0437U) and TruD MDS codes (0618U, 0622U, 0627U) regardless of clinical indication. Update billing software to flag these codes for rejection before claim submission. Notify providers in psychiatry/behavioral health departments that these tests are no longer reimbursable under Aetna plans. Train billing staff to educate patients that microRNA measurements and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios for depression diagnosis will be denied. Update encounter templates and order entry systems to include clinical decision support alerts warning providers these tests are experimental/investigational. Failure to implement denials will result in claim rejections and potential compliance issues with Aetna's coverage policy.