Bausch & Lomb Crystalens AO has received new technology intraocular lens (NTIOL) classification from the US Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Crystalens AO, the accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) with aspheric optics, was approved by the FDA in late 2009 and is the presbyopia-correcting IOL with NTIOL classification.

Bausch & Lomb said that the NTIOL classification became effective April 9 and means that Crystalens AO IOLs are approved for an additional $50 Medicare payment adjustment for services in conjunction with cataract procedures performed at an ambulatory surgical center (ASC).

Bausch & Lomb added that unlike the standard cataract replacement lenses, Crystalens is designed to not only eliminate the patient’s cataract but also to give patients full range of vision so that they can see near, far and everything in between.

Andy Corley, global president of Surgical at Bausch Lomb, said: “We are pleased that the Crystalens AO has been included into the active new technology IOL class for reduced spherical aberration. We believe that this decision should benefit surgeons and their patients in the coming months.”

Bausch + Lomb brings visionary ideas to eye health. Its core businesses include contact lenses and lens care products, ophthalmic surgical devices and instruments, and ophthalmic pharmaceuticals.