G355 – Gastric lavage - diagnostic
OHIP Diagnostic & Therapeutic Procedures Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Diagnostic gastric lavage. This procedure involves the washing out of the stomach to obtain contents for diagnostic purposes. This service is payable in addition to another primary service, such as an assessment, when performed during the same encounter. Per , procedures performed during an assessment are generally included in the assessment fee unless separately listed. G355 is listed separately and is therefore eligible for payment in addition to an assessment.
When to Use
- Use G355 when performing a gastric lavage specifically to obtain samples for diagnostic testing, such as suspected poisoning or occult blood analysis.
- Bill G355 in addition to a consultation or assessment code when the lavage is the primary diagnostic intervention performed during that encounter.
Common Pitfalls
- Do not attempt to bill after-hours premiums like E409 or E410 with G355, as it is not classified as a Major Invasive Procedure.
- Avoid billing G355 for therapeutic gastric lavage, as G356 is the appropriate code for therapeutic procedures.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the diagnostic intent is clearly documented in the chart to justify the use of G355 over therapeutic alternatives.
Effective: April 1, 2025
J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES
Procedure
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
Ready to bill this code?
SnapBill makes OHIP billing simple — auto-filled codes, validation, and batch submission.