All codes
L804
L804 – Smear, specific assessment
OHIP Dermatology Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Smear, specific assessment e.g. eosinophils, asbestos bodies, amniotic fluid cells for estimation of fetal maturation.
When to Use
- Use L804 when performing a specialized microscopic examination of a smear for specific markers like eosinophils in nasal or sputum samples, rather than a routine CBC or general cytology.
- Apply this code for the assessment of amniotic fluid cells specifically to estimate fetal maturity, distinguishing it from general cytological screening codes like G003.
- Utilize L804 for the identification of asbestos bodies in clinical specimens where a specific, targeted search is required beyond standard histological review.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing L804 in conjunction with a general laboratory examination code for the same specimen often triggers a rejection for unbundling.
- Using L804 for routine peripheral blood smears or standard urinalysis is incorrect; these should be billed under their respective hematology or urinalysis fee schedule codes.
- Failing to document the specific nature of the smear assessment in the patient record will lead to recovery during a Ministry audit, as the code requires a specific diagnostic intent.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the requisition clearly specifies the target of the smear assessment, as the Ministry may request the lab report to verify the 'specific assessment' criteria of L804.
Provider Fee$14.70
Effective: April 1, 2026
Category
J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
Subcategory
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES
Service Type
Laboratory
Code Classes
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
Ready to bill this code?
SnapBill makes OHIP billing simple — auto-filled codes, validation, and batch submission.