The Australian Department of Health has listed a new interim Medicare item number (42705) for the implant of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) devices.
This follows the Department’s notification that as of 1 May the goniotomy item number 42758 cannot be used for the implant of MIGS devices for treating glaucoma. The new interim item number can only be used in conjunction with cataract surgery.
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO) has welcomed the decision. “Minimally-invasive glaucoma surgery devices are a major advance in glaucoma management. The new item number allows the continued implant of devices whilst a full Medical Services Advisory Committee (MSAC) review is underway,” said RANZCO President, A/Prof Mark Daniell.
