Postoperative Visits - Optometrists

For Minor Surgical Procedures - Optometrists

Some surgical procedures are considered minor by HMSA if they are performed in an office setting or operating room, usually under topical or local anesthesia. A global fee is paid for all necessary services rendered within 10 days of certain minor surgical procedures.

Postoperative services that are directly related to a minor surgery and provided for up to 10 days after the date of the surgery (postoperative period) are included in the global fee for the surgery and are not separately reimbursable. HMSA's 10-day postoperative period for minor surgical procedures is consistent with Medicare guidelines.

The state law on optometry (Chapter 459 of Hawaii Revised Statutes) states that therapeutically certified optometrists may perform noninvasive surface removal of superficial foreign bodies from the anterior segment of the human eye and eyelids (CPT code 65205 or 65210). There is no postoperative period for these services. Postoperative services such as evaluations and dressing changes are eligible for payment if they are billed separately from the surgical procedure.

Revision History