Will Medicare Cover My Cataract Surgery?
Are you considering cataract surgery to restore your vision and remove your cataracts? An important part of preparing for the procedure is understanding the associated costs so you can properly budget.
If you’re on Medicare, you may be wondering how much of your procedure will be covered under your plan. Keep reading to learn more about whether Medicare will cover your cataract surgery and what financing options are available to help you enjoy clearer vision.
What is Cataract Surgery?
Millions of patients undergo cataract surgery every year to remove their cataracts and improve their vision. Cataracts form on the natural lens of the eye when proteins within the lens break down over time and form clumps.
Common symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurry, cloudy vision
- Halos and glare
- Faded, dull, or yellowed vision
- Double vision
- Poor night vision
- Needing frequent prescription changes
When cataracts first develop, many patients don’t experience any symptoms at all or find they only have mild symptoms that can be improved with glasses or contacts. However, as they continue to progress, they will start to interfere with your ability to do things like driving, reading, and hobbies.
At this point, it is time to consider cataract surgery. This quick outpatient procedure involves removing the cataract-affected natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an intraocular lens, or IOL.
After cataract surgery, you won’t need to worry about them returning, as cataracts cannot develop on an IOL. You’ll also have the opportunity to experience clearer vision than ever before if you choose a premium IOL.
Does Medicare Cover Cataract Surgery?
Medicare coverage differs depending on where you live, but it typically covers cataract surgery with a monofocal IOL. While it usually does not cover glasses or contacts, some Medicare Part B patients are covered for one pair of glasses with standard frames or one set of contact lenses after cataract surgery.
Another factor in your cataract surgery coverage is where the procedure is done. If your cataract surgery is performed in your eye doctor’s office, you will pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for your procedure and IOL.
For patients who get cataract surgery in a hospital outpatient setting or ambulatory surgical center, you will need to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount to both the cataract surgeon and the facility where you got your procedure done.
Does Medicare Cover Premium IOLs?
Premium IOLs are lenses that allow patients to enjoy unique benefits and more visual freedom after cataract surgery. Standard monofocal IOLs correct vision at one distance, meaning most patients who choose this option still need glasses or contacts after cataract surgery.
On the other hand, premium IOLs often correct vision at multiple distances, helping patients reduce their reliance on visual aids. While they are not covered by Medicare, Mid Ohio Eye accepts CareCredit for special financing on premium IOLs.
With CareCredit, you can pay for your IOL over time with smaller monthly payments that can fit into your budget. At Mid Ohio Eye, we offer a great selection of premium IOLs, including:
Toric IOLs
Toric IOLs are specially shaped lenses made for patients with astigmatism. They can provide clearer vision and more freedom from visual aids.
Multifocal IOLs
Multifocal IOLs are made up of concentric rings set at different focusing powers, offering patients clearer vision across multiple distances. This often eliminates or significantly reduces their need for glasses and contacts.
Extended Depth of Focus IOLs
Extended depth of focus (EDOF) IOLs are lenses that provide a broader range of vision across multiple distances. The Vivity EDOF IOL incorporates proprietary non-diffractive technology to reduce visual disruptions like halos and glare.
This means you can enjoy smoother, more natural vision after cataract surgery.
Are you interested in learning more about cataract surgery? Schedule an appointment at Mid Ohio Eye in Columbus, OH, today!
