Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Question: Is there a code I can use for writing a prescription? If so, may I report it in addition to an E/M service or when a patient calls in and I simply write a prescription for the patient to pick up at the front desk? New Jersey Subscriber Answer: There is no CPT code that you should report when you write a prescription for a patient. CPT specifically includes writing prescriptions as part of the standard E/M service. You should consider prescription writing as part of the cost of seeing patients. E/M codes also require a face-toface encounter with the provider. Coding solution: If you or a technician sees the patient, you should report the appropriate E/M code -- for example, an established patient code (99211-99215, Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient ...). But you must meet incident-to guidelines to report 99211 [...]