Medicare pays $89 on average nationally for this procedure.

CPT code 88162 describes a laboratory cytology smear analysis performed by a lab analyst when the procedure requires evaluation of more than five slides, multiple stains, or both; this service covers analysis of smears from sources such as cervical, vaginal, fine needle aspirates, body fluids, and washings when no more specific code applies. Service type: laboratory cytopathology / technical smear analysis. Typical site of service: clinical laboratory or hospital laboratory where microscopic smear preparation and staining occur.

For related coverage guidance, see recent payer policy updates: Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT) Testing in Adults, Drug Screen Testing - Professional, Venous and Arterial Thrombosis Risk Testing.