Blindness r eye category 3, blindness left eye category 3

This code signifies severe visual impairment in both eyes, specifically classifying the right eye as Category 3 blindness and the left eye as Category 3 blindness. Category 3 blindness, according to the ICD-10-CM visual impairment scale, indicates a best-corrected visual acuity worse than 20/400 to no light perception. This bilateral severe vision loss significantly impacts a patient's daily functioning and independence.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates bilateral blindness with both eyes meeting the criteria for Category 3 visual impairment. This typically applies to patients with advanced stages of conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or optic nerve atrophy affecting both eyes to this severe degree. Supporting documentation should include ophthalmological examination findings, visual acuity measurements, and a physician's diagnosis of bilateral Category 3 blindness.

• Ensure both eyes are explicitly documented as Category 3 blindness; do not assume bilateral involvement from a single eye's documentation.
• Verify the visual acuity measurements align with the Category 3 definition (worse than 20/400 to NLP).
• Always code the underlying cause of the blindness (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma) in addition to this code, following sequencing guidelines.