Medicare coverage for vision assistive equipment

Arch Ophthalmol. 2010 Oct;128(10):1350-7. doi: 10.1001/archophthalmol.2010.228.

Abstract

Vision loss that cannot be corrected medically, surgically, or by refractive means is considered low vision. Low vision often results in impairment of daily activities, loss of independence, increased risk of fractures, excess health care expense, and reduced physical functioning, quality of life, and life expectancy. Vision rehabilitation can enable more independent functioning for individuals with low vision. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recognizes the importance of rehabilitation for achieving medically necessary goals but has denied Medicare coverage for vision assistive equipment that is necessary to complete these goals, although they provide coverage for assistive equipment to provide compensation for other disabilities. We believe that this is discriminatory and does not comport with congressional intent. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services should provide coverage for vision assistive equipment, allowing beneficiaries with vision loss to benefit fully from Medicare-covered rehabilitation to achieve the cost-effective results of these services.

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged
  • Blindness / rehabilitation*
  • Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S. / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Health Promotion
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Health Services Research
  • Humans
  • Insurance Benefits / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Insurance Benefits / statistics & numerical data
  • Insurance Coverage / statistics & numerical data*
  • Middle Aged
  • Sensory Aids*
  • United States
  • Vision Screening
  • Vision, Low / rehabilitation*
  • Visually Impaired Persons / rehabilitation*