Does Medicare pay for eye exams?

Medicare does not pay for routine eye exams and eyeglasses. Medicare will help pay for one set of eyeglasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery. You should call your Durable Medical Equipment Regional Carrier for more information. Check the Helpful Contacts section of the Medicare Web site for the phone number for your Durable Medical Equipment Regional Carrier. Effective Jan. 1, 2002. Medicare now covers an annual (once every 12 months) dilated eye examination for all people with Medicare at high risk for glaucoma. This includes people with diabetes or a family history of glaucoma. The screening must be done or supervised by an eye doctor who is legally allowed to do this service in your state. Medicare covers 80 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for glaucoma screening after the individual has paid the $100 deductible for Part B services. You should check with your local Medicare carrier for specific coverage information for glaucoma screening. The contact telephone ...  more