See if you need vision insurance

Your eyes are the window to the world, and deteriorating eyesight should not mean seeing less as you age. Medicare does not typically offer a vision plan despite so many beneficiaries experiencing the effects of losing their vision. However, there are vision plans you can purchase to help cover the cost of visits to the optometrist. Read on to see what Medicare will cover to help maintain your eyesight and your options for coverage outside your Medicare plan.

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Common Misconceptions

For all that Original Medicare covers, many people are surprised to learn that vision care is not included. That might be a result of the rise of Medicare Advantage plans which frequently include a vision benefit as part of the plan package. As we’ve discussed, Medicare Advantage plans are not inherently bad; they are just misunderstood. Many of our clients love their Medicare Supplement Plan G because they offer the most comprehensive coverage, but you’ll need a separate vision plan.

Do Medicare Supplement plans cover any vision care?

Yes, if you have an urgent procedure related to your vision that a doctor deems medically necessary, Medicare Supplement, also known as Medigap, will help cover some or all of the cost, depending on your plan. Routine trips to the optometrist or getting an updated prescription on your glasses will not be covered. With Medicare Supplement Plan G, you might get full coverage for medically necessary scleral lenses and procedures to treat macular degeneration and cataract surgery. Medicare Part B also covers yearly tests for glaucoma if you're considered high-risk.

What are your options?

If you need vision coverage, and the amount you spend on your glasses outweighs what you might save on a Medicare Supplement, you might consider a Medicare Advantage plan. Suppose you want the most comprehensive coverage and the best network that Medicare Supplement Plan G offers. In that case, you can consider buying a vision insurance policy to go with your Medicare Supplement Plan. Many of the same insurance carriers offering Medicare plans also have vision insurance plans for seniors for as low as $5 a month.

Best practices when shopping for vision insurance

1. Assess your needs. Are you looking for preventative care or more costly procedures? Does your plan cover your local optometrist? Are you interested in LASIK, and would your plan cover the procedure? These are all questions you should ask yourself.

2. Keep the cost in mind. Make an assessment of how much you spend yearly on your vision. Would you save money on a plan, or does it make sense to pay out-of-pocket and avoid monthly premiums?

3. Don't fuss over matching the provider of your Medicare Supplement plan. Remember, the government, not the insurance provider, defines each Medicare Supplement plan's benefits. You should shop for vision insurance based on the best fit between your eyesight needs and your budget.

Conclusion

Keeping your vision can help you enjoy life for years to come. To help you identify what those plans may be, our team of licensed insurance experts will help you explore the various options available and how to find the best vision plan for you or a loved one. Give Fair Square Medicare a call today at 1-888-376-2028.

Stay Up to Date on Medicare!

Join the Fair Square Medicare Newsletter to stay informed on cost savings, changes to Medicare, and other valuable healthcare information.

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