Medicare is a lifesaver for many older adults, but when it comes to vision coverage, things can get murky. If you’re wondering what’s included and what’s not—especially when it comes to glasses, eye exams, and surgery—you’re not alone.
The good news? There are options for getting vision care under Medicare, but you need to know where to look and how to fill in the gaps.
What Original Medicare Covers (Spoiler: Not Much)
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is great for hospital stays and basic medical care, but it falls short when it comes to routine vision needs. Here’s what it does cover: eye exams for people with diabetes, annual glaucoma tests for individuals considered high risk, diagnostic testing and treatment for macular degeneration, and cataract surgery—including one pair of basic eyeglasses or contact lenses afterward.
But regular eye exams, glasses, and contacts? Not covered under Parts A or B. That’s where the other parts of Medicare come in.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) to the Rescue
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies, and many of them include vision benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t. These can include coverage for annual eye exams, eyeglass frames and lenses, contact lenses, and even discounts on procedures like LASIK. Some plans offer a yearly vision allowance—say, $100 to $300—while others provide set copays for specific services. Since each Medicare Advantage plan is different, comparing the benefits and network providers is key to finding the right fit.
How Much Can You Expect to Pay?
If you go with a Medicare Advantage plan that includes vision, here’s what you might be looking at in terms of cost:
| Vision Service | Typical Cost with Medicare Advantage |
|---|---|
| Routine eye exam | $0–$20 copay |
| Eyeglasses (basic pair) | $0–$150 out-of-pocket |
| Contact lenses | Varies, often part of a set allowance |
| Frames | Covered up to a certain dollar limit |
| LASIK discounts | Not covered, but some offer savings |
Keep in mind: higher-tier plans may offer more generous benefits. And some include coverage only through network providers, so check the details before signing up.
What About Supplemental Plans?
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans help pay for things like copays and deductibles, but they don’t typically cover vision services either. If vision is important to you, Medigap won’t be the answer—stick with Medicare Advantage or a standalone vision plan.
Adding Standalone Vision Insurance
If you love your Original Medicare but need help with eye care, you can buy a separate vision insurance plan. Companies like VSP, EyeMed, and Humana offer standalone plans that include annual eye exams, prescription glasses or contacts, and discounts on frames and lenses. These plans usually cost under $20 per month and can be activated quickly—sometimes within just a few days of enrollment. For many people, this can be an easy and affordable way to close the gap in their vision coverage.
Free or Discounted Vision Services
Even if you’re on a tight budget, there are resources out there. Local non-profits and community health clinics sometimes offer free or low-cost eye exams, especially for seniors or those with limited income. Retail chains like Walmart Vision Center or Costco provide affordable services even if you don’t have insurance, and many locations accept Medicare Advantage plans. It’s also worth checking out any vision programs offered by your state or local government—some of these provide glasses or exams at reduced or no cost. A good place to start is your local Area Agency on Aging, which can connect you with available programs nearby.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Vision Benefits
To really make your coverage work for you, it’s important to stay in-network whenever possible—going outside your plan’s provider list can mean higher costs or even no coverage at all. Many plans operate on a use-it-or-lose-it basis, so be sure to use any vision allowance or exam benefits before the end of the year. If you’re also in need of dental care, look into bundled dental and vision plans that can offer a better combined rate. And don’t forget to review your plan each year—benefits can change, and switching could save you money or give you better coverage next time around.
Helpful Resources for Medicare and Vision Coverage
Ready to dig deeper or compare plans? These resources can help:
