Urgent COVID-19 Information for Optometrists – Teleoptometry Fee Codes 

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY

The Ministry of Health has established two new temporary fee items to enable registrants to provide virtual care through video conferencing during COVID-19. The temporary new codes are part of the overall plan to ensure optimal use of healthcare resources, and improve patient flow by reducing the number of in-person visits to physician offices and emergency rooms.

The following new fee items are effective immediately with an end date to be determined by the Provincial Health Officer:

Fee Item 02879 – Tele-optometric full diagnostic examination of the eyes, where final determination of the refractive index is not applicable – $40.00

Notes:

1. Includes the determination of the presence of any abnormality in the visual system.
2. Must comply with the College of Optometrists of BC – Teleoptometry Policy.

Fee Item 02878 – Tele-optometric re-examination or minor examination of the eyes – $29.92

Notes:

1. Cannot be billed within 72 hours of a 02899, 02889 or 02879
2. Must comply with the College of Optometrists of BC – Teleoptometry Policy.