Original Medicare
Medical Supplies Following Cataract Surgery
- They must have on file a prescription order signed by the ophthalmologist or optometrist.
- They need to apply for and receive a Medicare supplier number. Strict requirements apply.
- The eyewear supplier must be enrolled in Medicare and accept Medicare assignment to be considered a participating supplier.
Optometrist services following a cataracts surgery may be covered. The practitioner must be licensed by your state of residence.
Glaucoma Screening
Medicare Part B covers an annual glaucoma screening test for the following high-risk individuals:
- those with diabetes
- those with a family history of glaucoma
- African Americans who are 50 or older
- Hispanic Americans who are 65 or older
This screening may only be done by a licensed practitioner. After the deductible has been met, patients are required to pay 20% of Medicare-approved costs.
Routine Eye Exams
Generally, Medicare does not pay for routine eye exams. The following are exceptions:
- glaucoma screenings
- macular degeneration treatment
Macular Degeneration
Treatment
Some treatment for macular degeneration is covered by Medicare Part B. This includes some injected drugs. After the deductible is met, individuals are responsible for 20% of the Medicare-approved costs.
Eye Prostheses
Medicare will pay for an eye prostheses for those who have either lost an eye or have eye shrinkage. This includes polishing of the eye and replacement every five years. After the deductible is met, individuals are responsible for 20% of the Medicare-approved amounts.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans must provide equivalent Original Medicare benefits. Many plans extend these benefits to include the following:
- Preventive eye exams
- Routine eye exams
- Eyeglasses (frames and lenses)
- Contact lenses
Need Help Finding a Medicare Plan?
For help finding a Medicare plan or Medicare Prescription Drug plan, try our Medicare Plan Finder. If you have any questions, please contact Medicare at any time at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227; TTY users 1-877-486-2048).