Question

Under what circumstances would Medicare cover eyeglasses?

After cataract surgery that includes implanting an intraocular lens

When the patient suffers from glaucoma

As a substitute for Lasik surgery

Medicare never covers eyeglasses.

Answer 1

Generally, Original Medicare does not cover routine eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, following cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens, Medicare Part B helps pay for corrective lenses; one pair of eyeglasses or one set of contact lenses provided by an ophthalmologist.

After each cataract surgery with an intraocular lens, you pay 20% of Medicare-approved amounts for one pair of eyeglasses or one set of contact lenses, after the Part B deductible, if applicable.