CPT 99173: Visual Acuity Screening
Screening test of visual acuity, quantitative, bilateral. A simple vision screening test performed using a standardized eye chart.
Why CPT 99173 Claims Get Denied
Claims billed under CPT 99173 are frequently denied or downcoded for the following reasons. Understanding these patterns helps your practice reduce denial rates and recover revenue faster.
Bundled with preventive visit or E/M service
Not separately billable per payer policy
Performed by unqualified staff
Frequency limit exceeded
Billing Tips for CPT 99173
Many payers bundle visual acuity screening with the E/M visit. Check payer policy before billing separately. Some Medicaid programs and EPSDT will reimburse separately for pediatric vision screenings. Document the screening method and results.
Documentation Requirements
To support a clean claim for CPT 99173, your clinical documentation should include:
Screening method used (Snellen chart, etc.)
Results for each eye
Referral if abnormal findings
Provider interpretation
Reduce CPT 99173 Denials by 60%
RediClaim's pre-submission scrubber catches documentation gaps and coding errors before you submit, while the appeal generator handles denials that slip through.