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The CPT® Code 99172 refers to a comprehensive visual function screening test that employs automated or semi-automated methods to quantitatively assess various aspects of visual performance. This screening encompasses the bilateral determination of visual acuity, which measures the clarity or sharpness of vision, as well as ocular alignment, which evaluates the positioning of the eyes. Additionally, the test includes an assessment of color vision using pseudoisochromatic plates, a method designed to identify color deficiencies. The field of vision is also examined to determine the extent of peripheral vision. Furthermore, the screening may incorporate evaluations for contrast sensitivity, which assesses the ability to discern objects against varying backgrounds, and vision under glare conditions, which tests how well a person can see in bright light scenarios. This type of vision screening is particularly important for individuals in occupations that necessitate specific visual capabilities for safety and performance. The screening process is tailored to meet the specific vision requirements outlined in the screening request, ensuring that the evaluation is relevant and comprehensive. Various techniques, such as the use of a Snellen chart for visual acuity and pseudoisochromatic plates for color vision, are employed to provide accurate and reliable results. The outcomes of the screening are interpreted by a qualified physician or technician, who then compiles a written report detailing the findings for further review and action if necessary.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The visual function screening test coded as CPT® 99172 is indicated for individuals whose occupations require specific visual parameters to be met for safety and performance. The following conditions or situations may warrant this screening:
The procedure for conducting the visual function screening involves several key steps, each designed to evaluate different aspects of visual performance:
After the visual function screening is completed, the physician or technician interprets the results and compiles a written report detailing the findings. This report may include recommendations for further evaluation or treatment if any visual deficiencies are identified. Patients may be advised on the next steps based on their results, which could involve referrals to specialists or follow-up screenings. It is important for individuals to understand the implications of their visual function results, especially if they are related to occupational requirements. Recovery from the screening itself is typically immediate, as it is a non-invasive procedure, and patients can resume normal activities right away.
| Short Descr | OCULAR FUNCTION SCREEN | Medium Descr | VISUAL FUNCT SCRNG AUTO SEMI-AUTO BI QUAN DETERM | Long Descr | Visual function screening, automated or semi-automated bilateral quantitative determination of visual acuity, ocular alignment, color vision by pseudoisochromatic plates, and field of vision (may include all or some screening of the determination[s] for contrast sensitivity, vision under glare) | Status Code | Non-Covered Service | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Non-Covered Service, not paid under OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | Q - Vision Items or Services | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P4E - Eye procedure - other | MUE | 0 | CCS Clinical Classification | 220 - Ophthalmologic and otologic diagnosis and treatment |
| 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | 25 | Significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional on the same day of the procedure or other service: it may be necessary to indicate that on the day a procedure or service identified by a cpt code was performed, the patient's condition required a significant, separately identifiable e/m service above and beyond the other service provided or beyond the usual preoperative and postoperative care associated with the procedure that was performed. a significant, separately identifiable e/m service is defined or substantiated by documentation that satisfies the relevant criteria for the respective e/m service to be reported (see evaluation and management services guidelines for instructions on determining level of e/m service). the e/m service may be prompted by the symptom or condition for which the procedure and/or service was provided. as such, different diagnoses are not required for reporting of the e/m services on the same date. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 25 to the appropriate level of e/m service. note: this modifier is not used to report an e/m service that resulted in a decision to perform surgery. see modifier 57 for significant, separately identifiable non-e/m services, see modifier 59. | GY | Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit | XU | Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service |
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| 2008-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| 2001-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 2001. |
| 1991-12-31 | Deleted | Code deleted. |
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