If eyeglasses or other corrective lenses are deemed “medically necessary” (after cataract surgery, for example), they might be covered by Medicare. Otherwise, Parts A and B of Original Medicare will not assist with prescription sunglasses, contact lenses, or eyeglass costs.

Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) might offer eyeglass, contact, and prescription sunglass vision coverage. Vision benefits such as routine eye exams might also be covered. Each plan is different, so make sure to talk to your provider regarding eye health items offered within your plan and how they are covered.

Medicare Part B will help pay for corrective lenses following cataract (implanting an intraocular lens) surgery. One pair of standard-frame eyeglasses or a single set of contact lenses, along with 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for the lenses after each surgery, will be covered. In these cases, the Part B deductible will apply, and you will also pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount. Any additional costs for upgraded frames will also be your responsibility.

Talk to your healthcare provider to determine the price of your item, service, or test. The exact amount you will owe depends on factors such as other insurance you have, how much your doctor charges, whether your doctor accepts assignment, the type of facility, and the location of your test, item, or service.

Oftentimes, your doctor or medical provider might recommend you receive services more often than what Medicare covers. They might also suggest services that Medicare doesn’t cover. In this case, you might have to pay some (or all) of the expenses. To understand why your doctor recommends certain services and whether Medicare will pay for them, ask questions and gather information.

Contact lens and glasses coverage is limited outside of a Medicare Advantage plan. Make sure you consider your eye health needs when you select the Medicare coverage for you.

For more information, refer to the full article on Medicare.gov.

Senior Health Medicare is a superior resource for Medicare guidance, information, and ongoing client support. Selecting a Medicare plan is not a flippant decision. It requires annual revisiting and re-evaluating in order for the client to stay in the most cost-effective coverage. Senior Health Medicare is here to serve as your resource through all the years to come. Contact us today at 888-404-5049 or visit us on the web at www.seniorhealthmedicare.com.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.