Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Question: What code should we use to bill LASIK?

Florida Subscriber

Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the box below for the answer.



Answer: There is no code for LASIK. The most appropriate code is an unlisted procedure code (66999, unlisted procedure, anterior segment of eye). Some coders use 65710 (keratoplasty [corneal transplant]; lamellar), but it does not reflect the same work done by LASIK surgery and could be construed by a payer as an attempt to be paid for something they dont cover by using a code they do cover, suggesting fraud. Another consideration is that the payers will have a set fee for 65710 that may be lower than what you would get upon review of your report when billing with 66999.