Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover routine eye exams or eyeglasses, but it covers medically necessary vision care and prescription drugs under Part D.
Medicare open enrollment runs October 15–December 7
Medicare Part D is an optional prescription drug plan offered by private companies that covers the cost of eye medications.
The list of specific covered drugs (formulary) and associated costs varies by your Part D plan.
Original Medicare will pay for one pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses if you have cataract surgery with an intraocular lens implant.
Common questions about vision coverage
Medicare Benefits and Your Eyes
Patient and Financial Assistance Programs
External Resource
These privately offered plans often bundle vision and prescription drug coverage into their benefits
Cosmetic or elective vision services such as Lasik or Botox typically are not covered.
To be dual eligible means an individual qualifies for and is enrolled in both Medicare and the state Medicaid program. Original Medicare does not cover a basic eye examination, eyeglasses or contact lenses, however, the Medicaid coverage may include vision benefits. Explore Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs), a special Medicare Part C plan specifically for dual eligible individuals.
More about how eye care is covered by each type of insurance.
