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L808
L808 – Imprint, touch preparation and/or direct smear
OHIP Dermatology Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service involves the microscopic examination and interpretation of cells transferred to a glass slide by either touching the slide directly to a fresh tissue specimen (imprint/touch preparation) or by smearing material onto a slide. This cytopathology technique is used for rapid cellular assessment.
When to Use
- Use L808 for rapid intraoperative assessment of a tissue specimen when an operative consultation (L822) is not being claimed.
- Use this code for the microscopic examination of touch preparations or direct smears performed in a non-operative setting, such as a clinic-based fine needle aspiration or biopsy assessment.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing L808 in conjunction with L822 or L823 for the same specimen will trigger an automatic rejection as these services are considered bundled during operative consultations.
- Claiming L808 for routine pathology slide preparation that is already included in the global fee for a surgical pathology specimen (e.g., L820 series) is considered double-billing.
Billing Tips
- If performing a rapid assessment during an operative consultation, ensure you bill the appropriate L822/L823 combination instead of L808 to avoid claim rejection.
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