Policyholder Services

What is OMIC’s position on using the Intralase machine to cut the flap at one location and continuing the LASIK surgery at another site?

Ideally, the entire procedure should be performed at one location. While OMIC does not have any underwriting requirements or policy language that specifically excludes or prohibits it, we believe that transporting a patient from one location to another, distant location (e.g. not within the same building or a neighboring building) after the flap has been created exposes the patient to increased and possibly unnecessary risk. We also believe that it would be difficult to defend a resulting claim should the patient experience an injury or complication, particularly if it could be attributed to the transport. If you have a situation with extenuating circumstances that you believe will warrant the transfer of a patient to another facility after the procedure has been initiated, please contact an OMIC risk management specialist at (800) 562-6642, ext. 641 for confidential advice and assistance before proceeding.