09152020 CPP: Frequency of Comprehensive Eye Exams (Effective 10152020)
Dear Provider,
WellCare is implementing the following policy for Frequency of Comprehensive Ophthalmological Exams with an effective date of 10/15/2020.
Summary of Policy:
Per CPT® guidelines, comprehensive ophthalmological services “describes a general evaluation of the complete visual system. The comprehensive services constitute a single service entity but need not be performed at one session. The service includes history, general medical observation, external and ophthalmoscopic examinations, gross visual fields and basic sensorimotor examination. It often includes biomicroscopy, examination with cycloplegia or mydriasis, and tonometry. It always includes initiation of diagnostic and treatment programs”.
In accordance with clinical practice guidelines outlined by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and American Osteopathic Association (AOA), WellCare will only reimburse for an intermediate, established patient ophthalmologic services when billed within six months of a previous comprehensive ophthalmologic service for review of the same condition. Should two comprehensive exams be required, it should be documented as such within the medical record and provided with the appeal.
What does this mean for providers?
Comprehensive ophthalmological exams should not be used for checkups when there’s a chronic problem being followed up every few weeks or months. If a patient is seen for a follow up visit within 6 months of the comprehensive ophthalmologic service (CPT 92014) performed for the same condition, the claim will be down coded to the Intermediate Ophthalmological (CPT 92012) service. Providers may see the following Explanation Codes on the Explanation of Payment (EOP) if this type of down coding is performed:
- IH062- E & M Code Level Denied based on info supplied on claim
- LT062- CPT recoded based on claim info. Medical Records needed.
Note: Timespan for claims processing includes lookback to the previous calendar year as opposed to six months to align with Missouri State guidelines.
Dispute Process
If the provider does not agree with a payment determination, the provider has the right to file a dispute by submitting the medical record that supports additional reimbursement. WellCare will review the submitted medical record(s) to assess the intensity of service and complexity of medical decision-making for the services provided
Providers will have dispute rights on recoded Comprehensive Ophthalmological Exams. For reason codes LTXXX, please submit disputes to WellCare Health Plans, ATTN: CCR, P.O. Box 31394 Tampa, FL 33631-3394. Please refer to WellCare’s Quick Reference Guide (QRG) for additional instructions
Review the complete policy here: https://www.wellcare.com/Missouri/Providers/Medicaid/Claims/Payment-Policy
We are here to help. If you need further information, please contact your Network Representative.
