L800 – Blood film interpretation (Romanowsky stain)
OHIP Dermatology Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service covers the professional interpretation of a blood film that has been stained using the Romanowsky method. It is listed under the Haematopathology sub-section of Laboratory Medicine.
When to Use
- Use L800 when you perform a formal morphological review of a peripheral blood smear to investigate unexplained cytopenias or abnormal white cell counts that require more detail than an automated CBC.
- Use L800 to interpret a blood film when evaluating suspected hemolysis or microangiopathic processes where manual assessment of schistocytes or other red cell morphology is clinically indicated.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing L800 in conjunction with L826 is often flagged as a duplicate service if the laboratory report does not clearly distinguish the professional interpretation of the film from the automated hematology profile.
- Submitting L800 without a formal, signed report in the patient's chart that documents the specific morphological findings is a frequent cause of audit recovery.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the interpretation is distinct from the technical component of the stain; L800 is strictly for the professional interpretation fee, not the laboratory technical processing cost.
Effective: April 1, 2026
J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES
Laboratory
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
All insured services must be documented in appropriate records. The record must establish that: an insured service was provided; the service for which the account is submitted is the service that was rendered; and the service was medically necessary.
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