All PlansCoverageMedium impact
Surgical Treatments for Glaucoma
Regence BlueShield·Ophthalmology·Coding
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 17, 2026
Summary
New policy effective January 1, 2026 designates five specific glaucoma surgical treatments as investigational and not covered: excimer laser trabeculostomy/trabeculotomy, femtosecond laser trabeculotomy, transciliary fistulization, minimally invasive micro sclerostomy/trabeculostomy, and travoprost drug eluting ocular implants. Providers may bill patients directly for these procedures but should inform them of financial responsibility beforehand.
Action Required
Before January 1, 2026: Ophthalmology providers and billing staff must identify patients scheduled for the five investigational glaucoma procedures listed in the policy. Update patient financial responsibility forms and EMR templates to include required disclosure that patients will be financially responsible for these investigational procedures. Train front desk staff to inform patients of non-coverage before scheduling these treatments.