Norway updates laboratory reimbursement codes, adding 114 new tests

On September 23, 2026, the Norwegian Directorate of Health released version 81 of the Norwegian Laboratory Code system (Norsk laboratoriekodeverk, NLK), together with associated reimbursement tariffs for public and private laboratories. The updated codes must be implemented no later than November 1, 2026.

The NLK system is used for activity-based reimbursement by the Norwegian Health Economics Administration (Helfo) for laboratory tests performed in outpatient settings.

A total of 114 new codes were introduced, including 74 medical biochemistry codes, four medical microbiology codes, one medical genetics code, one immunology and transfusion medicine code, and 33 clinical pharmacology codes.

Examples of newly introduced codes include:

• NPU63582 – ctDNA(P)-Non-small cell lung cancer-related gene (NSCLC, list);
• NPU63733 – ctDNA(P)-Human papillomavirus DNA (list);
• NPU59104 – P-Hepatitis C virus (HCV) resistance determination;
• NOR35394 – DNA-Whole genome, long-read sequencing;
• NPU63763 – P-Pembrolizumab antibody.

The prefixes used in the code descriptions indicate the sample type or analytical material. For example, ctDNA refers to circulating tumour DNA (also known as liquid biopsy), while P refers to plasma.

In addition, four existing codes were modified, and three became invalid in this version of the NLK system.

What does it mean?

The update illustrates how the Norwegian laboratory reimbursement system is regularly adapted to changes in diagnostic practice, with new tests incorporated into the coding and reimbursement infrastructure and existing codes revised where necessary.

For diagnostic companies, these updates are relevant because coding and reimbursement arrangements can directly affect how a new test is introduced and funded in routine laboratory practice. Understanding whether an appropriate code exists, what reimbursement is associated with it, and when coding changes take effect should therefore form part of market access planning for Norway.

The introduction of 114 new codes across several laboratory disciplines also demonstrates the importance of monitoring the system on an ongoing basis, particularly for companies with new or evolving diagnostic technologies.

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