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O P H T H A L M O L O G Y
PAYMENT PROTOCOLS
CMS Explains Laser Cataract Payment
T
he Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has clarified
that its coverage of laser-assisted cataract surgeries follows the
same rules as that of conventional cataract procedures. In a
statement issued in November 2012 (tinyurl.com/a7chopc), CMS cited 2
rulings involving patient payments for non-covered charges in the insertion of presbyopia- and astigmatism-correcting IOLs.
"Medicare coverage and payment for cataract surgery is the same
irrespective of whether the surgery is performed using conventional surgical techniques or a bladeless, computer-controlled laser," says CMS.
"Under either method, Medicare will cover and pay for the cataract
removal and insertion of a conventional intraocular lens."
— David Bernard
small gauge instrumentation, the femtosecond laser. It's reasonable to
imagine they'll be even more integrated in the future, says Dr.
Berdahl, especially as market competition boosts capabilities, lowers
price points and, most importantly, supports better clinical outcomes.
"You should do what you believe in your heart is best for your
patients," says Dr. Berdahl. "If you feel like the technology is better,
you should adapt it."
If you're not convinced that the technology is better, though, wait
and see. It's always improving. "The first generation colored a lot of
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