Frequently Asked Questions
6. What constitutes acceptable diagnosis information?
Diagnostic information must document the specific reason why the individual tests are being ordered. Reasons may include a previously diagnosed disease or signs and symptoms relating to why the patient is being seen by a healthcare provider. If testing is being completed for screening or preventative purposes, this reason must be clearly identified.
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7. How do I find out specimen requirements for a test that is not in the current catalog?
If you cannot find the information you need in the ALN catalog or on our website, refer to the ARUP user guide or ARUP website .
If you are still unable to find the information you desire, such as specimen collection or handling information, please call the ALN Regional Service Center nearest you.
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8. Who can I contact about a question on technical, regulatory, or management issues relating to clinical laboratory science?
The dedicated, educated, and resourceful Consultant staff of the Avera Laboratory Network can assist you with any and all of the issues regarding your laboratory. These people stay abreast of the ever-evolving issues regarding laboratory regulation and management. Each Regional ALN Service Center has access to a Consultant who can meet your needs.
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9. What are a laboratory’s main responsibilities in a Compliance Program?
A compliance program is intended to assist the clinical laboratory in developing effective internal controls that promote adherence to applicable federal and state law, and the program requirements of federal, state and local health plans. There are seven elements that a clinical laboratory needs to commit to in order to have an effective compliance program.
- development and distribution of written procedures and policies
- designate a chief compliance officer and participation on the corporate compliance committee is encouraged
- development and implementation of regular and effective training programs
- maintenance of a process to receive complaints
- development of a system to respond to allegations of improper/illegal activities and enforcement of disciplinary action against those who have violated internal compliance policies
- use of audits and/or evaluation techniques
- investigation and remediation of identified systematic problems
Of these seven elements, the first is of extreme importance. It can not be stressed enough the importance of documentation and recordkeeping. A laboratory should be able to produce or obtain documentation to support the medical necessity of the service they are providing and billing for. Laboratories are in a unique position to educate physician clients concerning medical necessity issues.
Billing is also an important part of the documentation process. It is imperative that the code used to bill accurately describes the service ordered and performed.
**For detailed information on Compliance issues contact a Technical Consultant at one of the ALN Regional Service Centers.
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10. How can I tell what billing will be completed when tests are ordered?
Refer to catalog, price list, or call client services.
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