Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Question: One of our physicians documented a Schirmer’s test but we can’t find the code for it. Which code should we report?

Codify Subscriber

Answer: CPT^® does not include a code for this service. The Schirmer’s test is one of many diagnostic services that cannot be coded separately from an E/M code or eye code. A Schirmer’s test, or tear test, determines the amount of tears the eye produces. For patients with dry-eye syndrome, the test indicates whether the eye produces enough tears to keep it moist.

For the test, small filter paper strips are inserted into the conjunctival sacs of both eyes simultaneously for five minutes to measure tear production. Sometimes a topical anesthetic is administered prior to the paper insertion to prevent tearing from irritation caused by the paper. The eyes are closed during the test duration. At the test conclusion, the amount of moisture is measured. You’ll include the physician’s work for this test in your E/M or eye code selection.