Vision screenings in pediatric practice

[TNAHLIK]

Hello all..... I'm new to peds so bear with me.
My office is using code 99173 for vision screenings. When I look this up, it states that a Snellen chart is used for this screening. We are not using a Snellen chart, we use a hand held Plusoptix 12 vision screener that screens for myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, strabismus, anisometropia, anisocoria and opacities. The website for this device states that it meets coding standards for 99177, and from what I've seen it's more likely to get paid at a well child visit than a 99173. These are the definitions of each pulled from AAPC website:

99173-The provider checks the eyesight in both eyes of a pediatric patient by asking him to read letters of varying sizes on a standard chart, such as a Snellen’s chart, which he keeps 20 feet away from the patient.
99177-The provider uses instruments to conduct a vision screening exam to analyze both eyes to diagnose ocular or eye–related diseases. Both the screening and analysis take place on–site.

What are the pros/cons of 99173 vs 99177. To me, the 99177 would be the more accurate code to use. But as I said, I'm new to peds (I've been in ophthalmology, so go figure!)

Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[amandas45@yahoo.com]

We use a similar system and bill 99177 for it. Most of our payers won't reimburse for patients over 4 years old with this code however, So our practice switches to a chart screen at 5 years and bills 99173, if they're delayed or unable to complete the chart we inform the parents it may not be covered and ask if they'd prefer to go to an eye doctor or we can give it in house if they pay out of pocket.
Hope this helps!