For purposes of this chapter, the term "anatomic pathology services" means:

(1) histopathology or surgical pathology meaning the gross and microscopic examination of organ tissue performed by a physician or osteopath or under the supervision of a physician or osteopath;

(2) cytopathology meaning the examination of cells, from fluids, washings, brushings, or smears, including the Pap test examination performed by a physician or osteopath or under the supervision of a physician or osteopath;

(3) hematology meaning the microscopic evaluation of bone marrow aspirations and biopsies performed by a physician or osteopath, or under the supervision of a physician or osteopath, and peripheral blood smears when the attending or treating physician or osteopath, or technologist requests that a blood smear be reviewed by a pathologist;

(4) sub-cellular pathology and molecular pathology; and

(5) blood-banking services performed by pathologists. This chapter does not apply to any clinical laboratory service that is not included in the definition of anatomic pathology as set forth in this section. Nothing contained in this chapter may be construed to prohibit payments for anatomic pathology services by government agencies or their specified public or private agent, agency, or organization on behalf of the recipient of the services. Nothing in this chapter may be construed to mandate the right of assignment of benefits for anatomic pathology services as defined in this chapter.

HISTORY: 2005 Act No. 10, Section 5, eff January 13, 2005.