2025 CPT code 99172
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Medicine - Other Medicine Services and Procedures Feed
Automated or semi-automated visual function screening, including tests for visual acuity, ocular alignment, color vision, and field of vision.
Modifiers may be applicable. Refer to current CPT guidelines for modifier usage.
Medical necessity is established when the vision screening is required for specific job duties where good vision is essential for safety and performance.
The provider, other than an ophthalmologist or optometrist, administers the automated or semi-automated tests and interprets the results to determine if the patient's visual function meets the requirements for specific job duties.
In simple words: This is a vision screening test using automated equipment to check how well you see, if your eyes are aligned, and if you can see colors correctly. It's often used for jobs where good vision is very important, like being a pilot.
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). This service must employ graduated visual acuity stimuli that allow a quantitative determination of visual acuity (e.g., Snellen chart). This service may not be used in addition to a general ophthalmological service or an E/M service.
Example 1: A pilot undergoes a required annual vision screening to ensure they meet the visual acuity standards for flying., A truck driver undergoes a pre-employment vision screening to assess their visual function, including peripheral vision and color perception, for safe driving., An air traffic controller undergoes a periodic vision screening to ensure they can accurately identify and track aircraft.
Documentation should include the type of screening performed, the results of each test (visual acuity, ocular alignment, color vision, and field of vision), and the interpretation of the results in relation to the patient's job duties.The specific device used may need to be documented as well.
** While the code description mentions glare and contrast sensitivity, these are not always tested or required.
- Specialties:Occupational Medicine, Aviation Medicine, other specialties requiring specific visual requirements.
- Place of Service:Office, Place of Employment - Worksite, Mobile Unit, other.