Are street signs hard to read? Are faces hard to see? It might be time for an eye exam. Your vision can change as you get older. That’s normal. Getting your eyes checked can help catch eye issues early. This can help you protect your sight.
But does Medicare cover eye exams?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) usually doesn’t cover routine eye exams or vision care.
But there’s good news. Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include vision coverage. This can help you pay for eye exams and glasses.
Want to know what your plan covers?
- Check your Medicare plan details
- Know which type of eye exam you need
What eye exams does Medicare cover?
Medicare has four parts — A, B, C, and D. Each covers different things.
Do you have Medicare Advantage (Part C)? You may get routine eye exam coverage.
Do you have Original Medicare (Parts A and B)? You’re sometimes only covered for medical eye issues. This does not include routine vision checks.
Here is a quick look at what’s covered under Medicare Part B:
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Diabetic eye test
This test checks for diabetic retinopathy, an eye condition that can affect your vision.
This test:- Checks if diabetes is affecting your vision
- Is done once a year
Coverage:
Medicare Part B covers this type of exam.
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Glaucoma testing
Glaucoma can cause vision loss if not caught early. Especially if you are at high risk.
You may be high risk if you:- Have diabetes
- Have a family history of glaucoma
- Are African American and over 50
- Are Hispanic and over 65
Coverage:
Medicare Part B covers a yearly test.
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Macular degeneration testing
Macular degeneration can harm the retina. The retina is the part of your eye that lets you see fine detail.
This test:- Checks for damage to the retina
- Helps check age-related macular degeneration
Coverage:
Medicare Part B covers some treatments and a test for this.
How much do eye exams cost?
Do you have Medicare Part B vision coverage?
- You pay 20% of the approved cost after your deductible.
- Don’t have vision coverage?
- Eye exams can cost $75 to $200.*
- Other vision services can vary in cost based on the condition being treated or tested.
Does Medicare Advantage cover eye exams?
So, does Medicare cover routine eye exams? Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may include vision benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t. Medicare Advantage may help cover:
Some plans, like Aetna Medicare Advantage, also cover glaucoma testing and macular degeneration treatments.
That means you could get more complete Medicare eye coverage — and worry less about surprise costs.
If your sight starts to change, don’t wait. Explore Aetna Medicare Advantage plans to find vision coverage that’s right for your needs.
