Optometry Coding & Billing Alert
Ocular Blood Flow Testing
Question: What is the correct code for ocular blood flow (OBF)? A sales rep told me that it is now 92120 instead of unlisted-procedure code 92499.
Alabama Subscriber
Answer: Some coders and the manufacturer recommend 92120 (Tonography with interpretation and report, recording indentation tonometer method or perilimbal suction method). But this is controversial. Tonography is not the same as blood flow analysis. Tonography measures the change in intraocular pressure (IOP) over a period of time, while the blood flow analyzer measures the ocular blood flow.
However, the machine has an add-on device that performs tonography. If the optometrist uses the machine for tonography, report 92120.
Because there is no code for measuring ocular blood flow, if you do not perform tonography, Medicare carriers specifically direct you to use unlisted-procedure code 92499 (Unlisted ophthalmological service or procedure). Most Medicare carriers will not reimburse for OBF, considering the test to be of unproven value.
Optometry Coding & Billing Alert
- Smile for the Camera and Revitalize Your Fundus Photography Coding and Billing
Getting fully reimbursed for 92250 is a snap--if you know the bundling and bilateral rules
When [...] - You Be the Coder:
Ocular Blood Flow Testing
Question: What is the correct code for ocular blood flow (OBF)? A sales rep told [...] - Quick Quiz:
Test Your Scanning Laser Coding Skills
You're 5 questions away from finding out if you've mastered SLGT billing
It's still a relatively [...] - Think You Can Bill E/M With Every Test? Think Again
Don't code 99201-99215 separately unless the service can stand alone
If you-re automatically billing an E/M [...] - Craft a New Billing Policy in 6 Steps
This easy policy-writing tutorial will guide you from start to finish
The key to optometry billing [...] - Here's Who to Call to Get Appeals Settled Faster
Some carriers require redeterminations even for minor errors
The new and improved appeals process is causing [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Distinguish Between 92012 and 92014
Question: When is it appropriate to use 92012 as opposed to 92014?
[...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Anticipate Rate Reversal, Retroactive Payment
Question: Will I need to resubmit the claims I have submitted in 2006 to claim [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Release Contacts Rx Regardless of Prior Bills
Question: After an eye exam and refraction, the patient wanted a copy of his contact [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Solve the Consult-Versus-Referral Riddle
Question: What is the difference between a consultation and a referral, and how can I [...] - Are You Required to Report Both Wrongful and Incidental Disclosures?
Question: What is the difference between a wrongful and an incidental disclosure of protected health [...]
