Optometry Coding & Billing Alert
Ocular Blood Flow Testing
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Question: What is the correct code for ocular blood flow (OBF)? A sales rep told me that it is now 92120 instead of unlisted-procedure code 92499.
Alabama Subscriber
Answer: Some coders and the manufacturer recommend 92120 (Tonography with interpretation and report, recording indentation tonometer method or perilimbal suction method). But this is controversial. Tonography is not the same as blood flow analysis. Tonography measures the change in intraocular pressure (IOP) over a period of time, while the blood flow analyzer measures the ocular blood flow.
However, the machine has an add-on device that performs tonography. If the optometrist uses the machine for tonography, report 92120.
Because there is no code for measuring ocular blood flow, if you do not perform tonography, Medicare carriers specifically direct you to use unlisted-procedure code 92499 (Unlisted ophthalmological service or procedure). Most Medicare carriers will not reimburse for OBF, considering the test to be of unproven value.
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