Optometry Coding & Billing Alert
Reader Questions:
Pack Both Eyes Into Pachymetry
Published on Mon Oct 27, 2008 
PDF
PDF
Question:
New Mexico Subscriber
Answer:
Report 76514 without modifiers, regardless of whether the optometrist performed it unilaterally or bilaterally. Code 76514 (Ophthalmic ultrasound, diagnostic; corneal pachymetry, unilateral or bilateral [determination of corneal thickness]) is a bilateral code. Note the phrase "unilateral or bilateral" in the description; it indicates that carriers will pay the same amount whether the optometrist performs it on one or both eyes.Your local carrier has probably discovered its mistake in reimbursing you double for the procedure, and you will most likely have to comply with its refund requests.
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