Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Keep Your Eyes Peeled on This One
 

Watch for a bill introduced into Congress on May 1. It could increase vision rehabilitation coverage by establishing uniform Medicare coverage in all states.
 
The Medicare Vision Rehabilitation Services Act of 2003, H.R. 1902, introduced by Rep. Mark Foley (R-Fla.), allows for the first time the services of "vision rehabilitation professionals" (orientation and mobility specialists, rehabilitation teachers, and low-vision therapists) to be available to Medicare beneficiaries.
 
According to the bill, vision rehab services can be performed by a qualified physician, occupational therapist, or a vision rehabilitation professional, as long as the patient is under the care of a qualified physician. When services are provided by a vision rehabilitation professional, only the physician can establish and review the plan of care; the physician's presence is not required, however, while the service is performed.
 
The bill names particular education and certification requirements for all vision rehab professionals, so a technician who is properly trained and meets the eligibility requirements would be able to perform low- vision services.
 
For detailed information about this bill, including its contents, cosponsors, endorsing organizations, and more, visit http://www.medicarenow.org/.
 
Stay tuned for updates on the progress of this bill.