Does Medicare Part B pay for eye exams?

Asked by: Jett Kshlerin  |  Last update: October 13, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (37 votes)

Original Medicare ( Part A and Part B ) doesn't cover eye exams or other vision-related costs, except for special situations. However, some people on Medicare have options, including vision coverage through individual insurance or Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) with vision coverage.

Are routine eye exams generally covered by Medicare Part B?

Technically, no. Medicare doesn't cover routine eye exams, eyeglasses or contact lenses, nor does it cover exams to determine prescriptions. However, if you're in certain high-risk groups, it does cover eye exams to check for specific conditions.

Does Medicare Part B cover vision?

Original Medicare Parts A and B do not cover vision care, except in certain circumstances. For example, Part B partially covers eye exams if you're at higher risk for eye complications such as glaucoma. Original Medicare also covers some medically necessary eye surgeries, such as cataract removal.

How much does Medicare pay for eye exams for seniors?

Medicare will pay for regular tests if you're at risk for — or have been diagnosed with — diabetes, glaucoma or macular degeneration. If you don't have these conditions and are on Original Medicare, you'll pay the full price for a routine eye exam, which is between $170 and $200, on average.

What part of the eye exam is not covered by Medicare?

Eye exams (routine)

Medicare doesn't cover eye exams (sometimes called “eye refractions”) for eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Does Medicare Pay For Eye Exams?

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How do I know if my insurance covers eye exams?

Checking your employer's or individual plan vision insurance benefits usually can be done easily by visiting the website address listed on your insurance card. For example, with VSP Vision Care, the largest vision insurance provider in the United States, just click on the View My Benefits link on the VSP website.

What are the 6 things Medicare doesn't cover?

Some of the items and services Medicare doesn't cover include:
  • Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)
  • Long-term care.
  • Cosmetic surgery.
  • Massage therapy.
  • Routine physical exams.
  • Hearing aids and exams for fitting them.

Does Medicare Part B cover dental?

For Part B-covered dental services, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet the Part B deductible. If you get the covered service in an outpatient hospital or other facility setting, you'll also pay a copayment to the facility.

How much is an eye exam without insurance?

The cost of an eye exam can vary widely depending on factors such as location, the types of tests that are performed, and whether you have vision insurance. Without insurance, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a standard eye exam.

Does Medicare Part B cover cataract surgery?

Medicare Part B benefits cover 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for cataract surgery. You pay 20% of the Medicare Part B copay plus any out-of-pocket costs such as your deductible, medication costs and physician fees.

What does Medicare Part B not cover?

Medicare Part B does not pay for some services that fall under the coverage of other parts. Examples include inpatient hospital services, which Part A funds, and most prescription medications, which Part D funds. Medicare regularly evaluates which services Part B will cover.

What does Medicare Part B cover doctor visits?

Medicare Part B pays 80% of most doctor's services, outpatient treatments, and durable medical equipment (like oxygen or wheelchairs). You pay the other 20%. Medicare also pays for mental health care costs.

What is the best dental insurance for seniors on Medicare?

If you're only relying on Medicare, it's a great idea to look into affordable dental plans that can help you save a lot of money.
  • Spirit Dental. ...
  • Renaissance Dental. ...
  • Denali Dental. ...
  • Delta Dental. ...
  • 5. California Dental.

Does Medicare Part B cover annual exams?

Medicare Part B covers an annual wellness exam and many preventive screenings with no copay or deductible. However, you may have to pay a share of the cost for certain recommended tests or services. And while it's not mandatory, there are very good reasons to have a wellness exam every year.

Under what circumstances does Medicare Part B cover eyeglasses?

Part B (Medical Insurance)

Covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. covers one pair of eyeglasses with standard frames (or one set of contact lenses) after each approved cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens.

Does Medicare pay for an OCT scan?

Medicare covers posterior OCT if the patient presents with a complaint that leads you to perform this test or as an adjunct to management and treatment of a known disease.

How much is a Walmart eye exam without insurance?

A. A comprehensive eye health and vision exam starts at $75.00. A basic contact lens exam starts at $110.00. If you have astigmatism or need bifocal correction and want to wear contact lenses, there is a modest additional cost.

Does Medicare pay for eye exams?

Routine eye care services, such as regular eye exams, are excluded from Medicare coverage. However, Medicare does cover certain eye care services if you have a chronic eye condition, such as cataracts or glaucoma. Medicare covers: Surgical procedures to help repair the function of the eye due to chronic eye conditions.

Are dental implants free for seniors on Medicare?

Original Medicare excludes dental implants, covering them only in rare cases tied to medical treatment, like cancer care or accident recovery. Medicare Advantage plans can include implant coverage, but availability and benefits differ, making it essential to compare plans carefully.

What if I have bad teeth and no money?

Affordable options like sliding scale clinics, dental schools, and payment plans can help with costs. If your teeth are rotting and you can't afford treatment, don't ignore it. Low-cost options like government programs or community health centers can help address the issue early.

Does Medicare Part B pay for diabetic test strips?

Part B (Medical Insurance)

covers some diabetic test supplies, including blood glucose (blood sugar) test strips, as durable medical equipment (DME).

Why are people leaving Medicare Advantage plans?

Key takeaways: People leave Medicare Advantage plans because out-of-pocket costs vary between plans, network restrictions can cause frustration, prior authorization requests can delay care, and it can be difficult to use the additional benefits they provide.

Does Medicare Part B cover 100%?

With Medicare Part B, you pay 20 percent of the cost for the services you use. So if your doctor charges $100 for a visit, then you are responsible for paying $20 and Part B pays $80. There is no limit on Part B coinsurance costs, which could add up if you have a lot of doctor visits or need other services.

What is the best supplemental insurance for Medicare?

The best Medicare supplement plan providers
  • Best for extra plan benefits: Humana.
  • Best for straightforward coverage: State Farm.
  • Best for extensive medical care coverage: AARP by UnitedHealthcare.
  • Best for a range of Medigap plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield.