How To Use CPT Code 0444T

CPT 0444T describes the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one or more eyelids, including fitting, training, and insertion, either on one eye or both. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0444T?

CPT 0444T can be used to describe the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one or more eyelids. This procedure includes fitting, training the patient, and the actual insertion of the insert. The insert is a clear, flexible device made of a polymer or plastic material that slowly releases a drug, such as timolol for glaucoma treatment.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0444T is the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one or more eyelids, including fitting, training, and insertion, unilateral or bilateral.

3. Procedure

1. The provider measures the shape and curvature of the patient’s eye to ensure a proper fit for the drug-eluting ocular insert.
2. The patient is trained on how to insert the device under their eyelid.
3. The provider performs the initial insertion of the insert.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0444T is used for patients who require the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one or more eyelids. This procedure is commonly performed for the treatment of glaucoma, an eye disorder characterized by increased intraocular pressure. The insert is placed on the sclera, not over the cornea, and slowly releases a drug to help manage the condition.

5. When to use CPT code 0444T

CPT code 0444T should be used when a provider performs the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one or more eyelids. This code is not appropriate for subsequent placements, which should be reported with CPT code 0445T.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0444T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the drug-eluting ocular insert
• Details of the fitting process, including measurements of the patient’s eye
• Date and time of the procedure
• Training provided to the patient on how to insert the device
• Details of the initial insertion performed by the provider
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0444T, ensure that the procedure involves the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one or more eyelids. This code should not be reported for subsequent placements. It is important to review any additional guidelines provided by payers to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0444T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2016. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under both eyelids of a patient with glaucoma, including fitting, training, and insertion.
2. A patient with glaucoma undergoes the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one eyelid, including fitting, training, and insertion.
3. A provider performs the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one eyelid of a patient with glaucoma, including fitting, training, and insertion.
4. A patient with glaucoma receives the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under both eyelids, including fitting, training, and insertion.
5. A provider performs the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under both eyelids of a patient with glaucoma, including fitting, training, and insertion.
6. A patient with glaucoma undergoes the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one eyelid, including fitting, training, and insertion.
7. A provider performs the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one eyelid of a patient with glaucoma, including fitting, training, and insertion.
8. A patient with glaucoma receives the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under both eyelids, including fitting, training, and insertion.
9. A provider performs the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under both eyelids of a patient with glaucoma, including fitting, training, and insertion.
10. A patient with glaucoma undergoes the initial placement of a drug-eluting ocular insert under one eyelid, including fitting, training, and insertion.