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Youreenrolled in Medicare, and it’s crucial that you go to your routine optometrist check-up.

But then you discover that, actually, routine vision care isnt guaranteed.

Many have coverage for both eye exams and eyewear.

A woman wearing glasses rides a bike on a skateboarding ramp. She’s having fun.

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But these are private plans that often put an annual dollar limit on vision coverage.

That means you wont have your new eyeglasses frames or annual vision exam covered.

But the real challenge is determining whatiscovered and what isnt, depending on what plan you have.

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When Insurance Falls Short…

Unfortunately, insurance doesnt covereverything.These resourcescan help you manage those unexpected expenses.

For example, if you have diabetes and are at risk for diabetic retinopathy, Medicare will coverannual exams.

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If youre athigh risk for glaucoma, Medicare will also cover annual screenings.

For eye diseases like macular degeneration, certain diagnostic tests and treatments may be covered.

Medicare Advantage privately-administered plans, on the other hand, do tend to have some vision coverage.

Heres how it breaks down.

It will also provide coverage if you are at risk for glaucoma.

Lasik surgery isnt covered either, as it isconsidered an elective surgery.

Well cover that in more depth shortly.

However, vision benefits are pretty modest plans offer about$100 to $200 of coverage.

Eye exams are also most commonly limited to no more than once per year.

Fortunately, several programs and organizations offer free or discounted eyeglasses and exams for older adults.

Here are a few ways to keep more money in your pocket without forgoing important eye care.

AAA and AARP members can receive discounts atparticipating LensCraftersand otherretail locations nationwide.

At Walmart, eye exams averageabout $75, but prices vary by location.

Appointments at Target also range between $70 and $100 for an exam.

All three retailers also offer a wide selection of eyeglasses that start around $60.

Can You Survive 10 Days of Budgeting?

If you should probably wrangle your budget, it may be time to consider a savings challenge.

EyeCare America is the public service arm of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

These services are free to qualifying older Americans.

Its one of the only national programs that offers free eye exams for people onOriginal Medicare.

Some locations also provide eyeglasses.

For more information, reach out to yourlocal Lions Club chapter.

Students at optometry schools sometimes provide free or discounted eye exams during clinics.

Another option is asking local vision care providers if they offer any senior discounts or in-house financing plans.

ensure to call ahead and ask before scheduling an appointment.

Finally, numerous local nonprofits offer free eye exams throughout the year.

CallUnited Ways 211 serviceto see if a program exists near you or Google free eye exams near me.

Here are the steps you better take:

Check outOneSights websiteto learn more about its vision voucher program.

Some online retailers,like Zenni Optical, offer single-prescription glasses starting at just $7.

Youll pay more for special coatings, progressive lenses and other add-ons.

Does It Make Sense to Buy Private Vision Insurance on Medicare?

Medicare beneficiaries can purchase private vision insurance to help offset the cost of eyeglasses and routine eye exams.

However, private insurance copayments and deductibles may not make it worthwhile.

You should carefully examine any private vision insurance plan benefits and costs before signing up.

confirm the plan actually saves you money on eyeglasses and routine exams.

Does the VA or Medicaid Cover Eyeglasses and Eye Exams?

Medicare may not be your only form of insurance.

Medicaid is a federally funded health insurance program for people with low incomes.

Its administered at the state level, so each state determines its own vision benefits and limitations.

In states that do provide vision benefits, basic eye exams are covered.

Prescription glasses with basic frames are also usually covered, but each state has specific caps.

Copays for eye exams with Medicaid are affordable, usually $15 or less.

Research your specific states Medicaid vision coverage orcontact your local Medicaid officefor more information.

Once youre clear on your coverage, ensure your eye doctor accepts Medicaid before scheduling an eye exam.

Talk to your VA primary care provider or contact yournearest VA medical centeror clinic for more information.

Listen, we know its tough out there.

But theres no shame in asking for help.

These companiesmake it easy to help yourself and your bank account.