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Documentation Required
Before the start of testosterone therapy for primary or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: at least two confirmed low morning testosterone levels according to current practice guidelines or the laboratory's standard reference values.
One fasting total serum testosterone level is sufficient for persons with severe deficiency (less than 150 ng/dL).
Testosterone levels should not be measured during acute or subacute illness.
Two consecutive low total (free plus protein-bound) fasting serum testosterone levels (below the testing laboratory's normal reference range or below 300 ng/dL) are required to determine medical necessity of testosterone replacement.
Key Coverage Criteria
Covered ICD-10 diagnoses if selection criteria are met: E23.0 (Hypopituitarism [hypogonadotropic hypogonadism]), E29.1 (Testicular hypofunction [primary]), E30.0 (Delayed puberty), F64.0 - F64.9 (Gender identity disorders), Z87.890 (Personal history of sex reassignment)
Delayed male puberty
CPT/HCPCS: CPT 11980 (Subcutaneous hormone pellet implantation) is covered for testosterone only if selection criteria are met; HCPCS S0189 (Testosterone pellet, 75 mg) covered if selection criteria are met.
Gender dysphoria when all of the following are met: The member has a diagnosis of gender dysphoria; and The member is able to make an informed decision to engage in hormone therapy; and The member's comorbid conditions are reasonably controlled; and The member has been educated on any contraindications and side effects to therapy; and Before the start of therapy, the member has been informed of fertility preservation options; and For members less than 18 years of age, this medication will be pre [...]
Primary or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, when the following criteria are met: Before the start of testosterone therapy, the member has at least two confirmed low morning testosterone levels according to current practice guidelines or your standard lab reference values
For continuation of testosterone therapy: before the member started testosterone therapy, the member had a confirmed low morning testosterone level according to current practice guidelines or your standard lab reference values
Ask Verity about documentation requirements, denial risks, or coverage in your state.
For persons with low normal total fasting serum testosterone levels (above 300 ng/dL but below 400 ng/dL): two consecutive low free or bioavailable fasting serum testosterone levels (below the testing laboratory's normal reference range or less than 225 pmol/L (6 ng/dL) if reference ranges are not available).
Two morning samples drawn between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. obtained on different days are required.