Blind and Visually Impaired

Q: Who pays for eye exams and glasses?
A: Medicare doesn’t cover routine eye exams (sometimes called “eye refractions”) for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers some preventive and diagnostic eye exams. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a yearly eye exam for diabetic retinopathy by an eye doctor who’s legally allowed to do the test in your state. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers a glaucoma test once every 12 months for people at high risk for glaucoma. The screening must be done or supervised by an eye doctor who’s legally allowed to do this test in your state. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers certain diagnostic tests and treatment of diseases and conditions of the eye, including treatment with certain injected drugs. Medicare Advantage Plans may offer extra coverage, like vision, hearing, dental, and/or health and wellness program.

Q: Where can I find assistive devices for the visually impaired?
A: While there is no insurance coverage for these devices, you can find help at the Industries for the Blind and through the Low-Vision Program at Wake Forest Baptist Health.

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