Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Frustrated by denials for 'taped and untaped' VFs? To prove that blepharoplasty is medically necessary, you have to perform two sets of visual fields per patient -- but many Medicare carriers will pay only for one set. You may never see full reimbursement for your work, but here's how you can code to get most of what you're due. Before approving blepharoplasty payments, insurers look for proof that the drooping eyelids are interfering with the patient's field of vision -- accomplished by performing taped and untaped visual field (VF) tests (92081-92083). Ophthalmologists must perform a visual field test with the patient's eyelids taped out of the way (in addition to a standard VF), showing what the postoperative field of vision will be, says Becky Zellmer, CPC, COTA, MBS, CBCS, medical billing and coding supervisor for Suby, Von Haden and Associates in Neenah, Wis. The visual field should demonstrate a minimum of 12 [...]