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Billing code

E154A — Photocoagulation (xenon, Argon Laser, Etc.) - One Eye

Retinal laser photocoagulation

Bill for photocoagulation of the retina with xenon, argon laser or similar, one eye.

Watch for: Not payable with E142 membrane peeling unless extensive pan-retinal laser is separately needed and both procedures are documented.

Code

E154A

Description

Photocoagulation (xenon, Argon Laser, Etc.) - One Eye

FHO+ basket

Not in the FHO+ base rate basket (Schedule 2 or 2B).

Effective date

Apr 1, 2026

Termination date

No end date

Explanation

Updated October 26, 2026

Retinal photocoagulation (xenon, argon laser, etc.) to one eye.

What it covers

Photocoagulation of the retina with xenon, argon laser or similar, one eye (Y8).

The fee is marked #: it doesn't include premises, equipment, supplies or staff for the procedure itself, which the hospital or facility funds (SP1).

Billing rules

• Not payable with E142 membrane peeling unless extensive pan-retinal laser is needed to treat underlying pathology, so that two separate procedures are done and both are documented (Y6).
• The surgical fee includes pre-op preparation, the procedure, recovery care and follow-up until the first post-op visit, but not the major pre-operative visit where the decision to operate is made (SP1–SP2).
• Listed fees are for one side unless stated (SP4). Multiple procedures under the same anaesthetic: 100% for the major one and 85% for the others (SP2).
• Age premiums for surgical procedures apply to patients under 16 (GP64).

Often billed with

• G821 or G822 OCT during active management with laser (J93).

Related codes: E151, E155, E125, E142, G821, G822

Source: Schedule of Benefits (July 1, 2026), Ocular Surgical Procedures, Retina and Extra Ocular Muscles, page Y8.

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