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Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Ace Your A-Scan Reporting With Accurate LT, RT, and TC Modifier Use

Published on Sat Oct 10, 2009

Watch out for inconsistencies among your payers. A-scans are some of the most common procedures performed in ophthalmology offices, but coding them can present you with some uncommon problems. According to CPT, A-scans -- 76511, 76516, and 76519 -- are the shortened names for A-mode scans, "one-dimensional ultrasonic measurement procedures." Ophthalmologists use 76511 (Ophthalmic ultrasound, diagnostic; quantitative Ascan only) to diagnose eye-related complications such as eye tumors, hemorrhages, and retinal detachment. Physicians use 76516 (Ophthalmic biometry by ultrasound echography, A-scan) to measure the axial length of the eye in preparation for cataract surgery. And 76519 (Ophthalmic biometry by ultrasound echography, A-scan; with intraocular lens power calculation) allows ophthalmologists to determine the intraocular lens calculation prior to cataract surgery only. Look for Unilateral A-Scans "Typically, most A-scans are performed bilaterally," notes Maggie M. Mac, CPC, CEMC, CHC, CMM, ICCE, consulting manager for Pershing, Yoakley, and Associates in Clearwater, Fla. "However, circumstances may only [...]
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