Optometry Coding & Billing Alert

Question: My Medicaid carrier just requested repayment for all claims for fundus photography performed on the same day as nerve head analysis with an OCT. Should I appeal this?

Alabama Subscriber

Answer: You certainly can appeal, but your chances  aren't good. The Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) places92250 (Fundus photography with interpretation and report) in a "mutually exclusive" bundle with optical coherence tomography (OCT) code 92135 (Scanning computerized ophthalmic diagnostic imaging, posterior segment, [e.g., scanning laser] with interpretation and report, unilateral). Many carriers see 92250 as a procedure that would not be necessary along with 92135.

The bundle may be a result of Medicare's concern about providers overusing 92135. The rule has caused many optometrists to try to avoid performing 92135 and 92250 on the same day unless medically necessary, due to health or transportation problems with the patient. For example, an optometrist might perform OCT at a six-month progress visit and fundus photographs at an annual exam.

If you need to perform both tests at one session, carefully document the medical necessity and report both codes, appending modifier 59 (Distinct procedural service) to 92135.

Beware: Many carriers may also be leery of paying for 92225 (Ophthalmoscopy, extended, with retinal drawing [e.g., for retinal detachment, melanoma], with interpretation and report; initial), 92226 (... subsequent), or 76512 (Ophthalmic ultrasound, diagnostic; B-scan [with or without superimposed non-quantitative A-scan]) on the same day as OCT (92135). Check with your carrier for its restrictions.