INSURANCE

Q: Are my regular prescription eye glasses, contact or sunglasses covered by Original Medicare? A: Unfortunately, if you are enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and you need routine eye care, you will probably have to cover 100% of the cost of your exam, glasses, frames, contacts and/or sunglasses. Original Medicare typically does not cover routine vision care services.

There are exceptions for vision care that is not considered routine by Medicare. For example, Medicare Part B helps pay for corrective lenses including one pair of eyeglasses or one set of contact lenses provided by an ophthalmologist following cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens. Medicare Part B also covers certain diagnostic tests and treatment of diseases and conditions of the eye, such as macular degeneration and glaucoma screening test once every 12 months for people at high risk for glaucoma. For more details about Medicare eye care, you should 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit Medicare. gov. Other Options While Original Medicare coverage of routine vision care is very limited, many Medicare Advantage plans provide additional vision benefits through eye care professionals who participate in their plan’s network. Benefits may include coverage for routine eye exams, eyeglasses (frames and lenses) and contact lenses. Specific benefits may vary, depending on the Medicare Advantage plan you choose. There are also a number of individual vision insurance plans designed to help cover the cost of routine vision care. These are ideal for retirees or anyone who does not have vision insurance.

If you are interested in learning more about vision care coverage through an Advantage Plan or and individual vision plan, give me a call at 440255-5700 or email me at Lmutsko@ mutskoinsurance.com I will be happy to help you. Laura Mutsko Mutsko Insurance Services, LLC 6982 Spinach Drive, Mentor, OH 44060 440-255-5700 www.mutskoinsurance.com

Laura Mutsko Agent, CSA and Certified Healthcare Reform Specialist