Optometry Coding & Billing Alert
READER QUESTIONS:
Can Assistant Perform Laser Scan?
Published on Sat May 23, 2009 
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Question:
Nevada Subscriber
Answer:
"General supervision" by the optometrist is prescribed whenever an assistant performs a laser scanning test (92135 for scanning computerized ophthalmic diagnostic imaging (SCODI), posterior segment on either or both eyes).General supervision means the procedure is conducted under the optometrist's overall direction and control, but the optometrist's presence is not required during the testing.
Note:
The optometrist's prompt interpretation of the test results is still required, as a delay could bring the medical necessity of the test into question. To find out if a patient share of cost applies, and how it works, ask your carrier's provider relations department.-- Answers to You Be the Expert and Reader Questions reviewed by David Gibson, OD, FAAO, practicing optometrist in Lubbock, Texas.
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