Discover Which Intraocular Lenses Medicare Covers for Cataract Surgery
Explore Medicare's coverage for intraocular lenses during cataract surgery and understand your options for glasses and contacts post-surgery.
Cataracts cause cloudiness in the eye's lens and are a common condition as people age. The National Eye Institute reports that over 50% of Americans aged 80 and above either have cataracts or have undergone surgery to treat them.
Cataract surgery is usually recommended when the condition starts to interfere with daily activities such as driving, reading, or watching TV.
Medicare and Intraocular Lens Coverage for Cataract Surgery
Medicare typically covers the implantation of standard intraocular lenses (IOLs) during cataract surgery across most regions.
An intraocular lens is a tiny artificial lens that replaces your eye’s natural lens during the surgical procedure. These lenses are commonly crafted from materials like acrylic, silicone, or other medical-grade plastics.
It is important to note that Medicare covers only basic IOLs. If your doctor suggests an advanced or premium lens, you may need to cover the additional costs yourself.
Coverage for Glasses and Contact Lenses After Surgery
While Medicare generally does not cover glasses or contact lenses, it does provide coverage for one pair of standard-frame glasses or one set of contact lenses following cataract surgery with an intraocular lens implant under Medicare Part B.
After meeting the Part B deductible of $257, you are responsible for 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. Additional charges may apply for upgraded frames.
Medicare will only pay for eyewear purchased from suppliers enrolled in the Medicare program.
Understanding Cataract Surgery Costs with Medicare
The cost of cataract surgery varies depending on the facility. According to Medicare, the national average costs are:
- Ambulatory surgical centers: approximately $1,906
- Hospital outpatient departments: approximately $2,943
After the Part B deductible, you would pay about 20% of these costs, which translates to roughly:
- $380 at ambulatory surgical centers
- $588 at hospital outpatient departments
Knowing these details can help you plan for your cataract surgery and understand what Medicare covers.
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