Optometry & Ophthalmology Billing

Optometry and ophthalmology billing involve the complex task of submitting and managing claims for eye care services. While both specialties deal with vision and eye health, their billing processes differ in scope, payer policies, and coding practices — especially when distinguishing medical vs. routine vision services.

Billing Challenges in Eye Care

  • Differentiating medical vs. routine care

  • Vision plan vs. medical payer confusion

  • Refractions often excluded from medical insurance

  • Prior authorizations for surgeries or injections

  • Denials due to incorrect modifier use

  • Dual coverage (Medicare + commercial vision plans)

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Best Practices for Optometry & Ophthalmology Billing

✅ Always verify both vision and medical coverage
✅ Document whether the visit is routine or medical
Use appropriate CPT/ICD-10 codes with supporting notes
✅ Clearly separate refraction from the medical visit on claims
✅ Apply modifiers accurately to avoid bundling issues
✅ Stay updated on payer-specific LCD/NCD guidelines