Billing ophthalmology is not the same as medical billing in general. There is advanced knowledge of both surgical and medical coding, as well as procedures such as retinal surgeries, cataract removal, glaucoma management, and LASIK. On top of that, ophthalmologists usually handle both vision plans and medical insurance, thereby establishing additional complexity layers.
Some of the distinguishing complexities of ophthalmology Medical billing services are:
• Building bridges between medical vs. vision insurance
• Utilizing proper modifiers (such as RT, LT, 50, 59, 24, 25)
• Processing bundled and unbundled services
• Coding for diagnostic exams such as OCT, fundus photography, and visual field testing
• Adhering to LCD and NCD policies
One minute mistake can lead to claim denial or lower reimbursement. That is why it's important to join forces with a billing team familiar with the complexity of ophthalmology that can have a considerable effect on your bottom line.