People With Medicare

Special Eye Exam

What is it?

A special eye exam, called a dilated eye exam, checks for eye disease or damage to your vision.

Why is it important?

The exam can help you find eye disease early. Then you can get it treated.

Who is covered?

People with Medicare who have diabetes can get this exam. Your doctor must write you an order for Medicare to cover it. An eye doctor who is legally allowed to provide this service in your state must do this exam.

Note: This exam is also one of the ways to test for glaucoma. If you are testing for glaucoma, you do not need an order or referral from your doctor.

How often is it covered?

Medicare covers this eye exam once a year.

What you pay?

First, you must meet your Medicare Part B deductible. Then you pay 20% of the cost Medicare approves for this exam.

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