Here is one more possible way to bill for the contact lens bandage. This was found at the Review of Optometetry and written by Dr. Sorrenson. I would save this method only in the event that 92071 is not covered. Not because I don't think it is good but because it doesn't make great business sense from a Return on Investment (ROI) standpoint...it is just too time consuming. This is definitely a last case scenario in that respect.
"Billing problems can arise in both diagnosing and fitting keratoconus patients. Diagnosis is typically suspected during a routine exam, then confirmed with corneal topography. Medical carriers vary considerably in topography reimbursement. Unfortunately, many wont pay for the procedure, regardless of your appeals.
Once you confirm the diagnosis and counsel the patient, finalize your decision to fit the patient in contact lenses. This is the first step where many offices fail to bill properly. The code for bandage lens fitting and supply [92071] is a poor choice for keratoconus fits because the reimbursement$60 to $85 for the fit and lenses, per eye is a fraction of the proper amount for a case of such complexity.
A better approach: Bill the code for contact lens fitting (92310) and append modifier -22 to alert the carrier to the greater amount of time and complexity for this proceduretriple the usual rate is not uncommon. Expect to submit further documentation to the carrier to justify this higher fee. A letter of explanation including full color topographic maps often fulfills this requirement." Read the Entire Article Here
Do you have any experience trying to bill for Contact Lens Bandages? Have you tried either of the methods listed above? Use the comment section below to talk back and let us know!
