Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Tip: Some codes ranges have been expanded to show laterality.

Like many of the current diagnosis code sets, the range of codes describing visual disturbances is set to expand considerably once ICD-10 takes effect on Oct. 1 of this year.

Some of the ICD-9 codes in the 368.xx range (Visual Disturbances) will just get a one-to-one translation in ICD-10. Example: There will remain only one option for describing a diagnosis of double vision (diplopia) – under ICD-9 you would report 368.2, and under ICD-10 you would report H53.2

Amblyopia ex anopsia

Subjective visual disturbances

Diplopia (double vision)

Other disorders of binocular vision

There’s more: Look for an examination of the rest of the Visual Disturbances ICD-10 conversion, including visual field defects and color vision deficiencies, in an upcoming issue of Ophthalmology Coding Alert.

Get ready: For more information on the ICD-10 conversion, as well as specific ICD-9 to ICD-10 code bridges, visit https://www.aapc.com/codes/.