Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Question: Our office performs LASIK surgery for some patients. I-ve looked and looked for a CPT code that Medicare will pay on for this procedure, but can't find one. What should I be reporting?


Tennessee Subscriber

Answer: There is no CPT code for laser-in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK). You should report 66999 (Unlisted procedure, anterior segment of eye) for Medicare carriers.

Alternative: Some of your non-Medicare carriers may accept HCPCS code S0800 (Laser in situ keratomileusis).

Take note: In many cases, carriers consider LASIK to be a self-pay procedure. Although Medicare and some other insurers typically will not cover LASIK to correct refractive error or other refractive procedures such as radial keratotomy (RK), conductive keratoplasty (CK) and intrastromal corneal ring segments (Intacs), you may need to submit a claim to Medicare to obtain a denial so the patient can seek reimbursement elsewhere.