Will Medicare Cover Prescription Lenses, Glasses or Sunglasses

Generally, Original Medicare (Parts A & B) will not help pay for prescription sunglasses, contact lenses or eyeglasses. However, eyeglasses or other corrective lenses may be covered in cases where they are deemed “medically necessary,” such as after cataract surgery.

Medicare Advantage Plans May Cover Prescription Sunglasses

Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer vision coverage including eyeglasses, contact lenses and prescription sunglasses. It may also include vision benefits such as coverage for routine eye exams. Each plan will be different, and you’ll need to talk with the provider about which eye health items are offered within a plan and how costs are covered.

Medicare Part B Will Cover Corrective Lenses Under One Condition

If you have to get cataract surgery to implant an intraocular lens, Medicare Part B will help pay for corrective lenses. Part B will provide coverage for one pair of eyeglasses with standard frames or a single set of contact lenses, and you will pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for the lenses after each surgery. The Part B deductible will also apply.¹

Coverage for lenses and glasses is limited outside of a Medicare Advantage plan so consider your eye health needs carefully when choosing Medicare coverage.

¹ https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/eyeglasses-contact-lenses