Saving on Eyeglasses and Vision Care
Glasses and eye exams can be costly, especially since Original Medicare does not cover routine vision care. Learn practical ways to save without sacrificing quality.
The short version
- Original Medicare does not cover routine eye exams or glasses, except in certain situations.
- Medicare Advantage plans, vision insurance and discount programs may help.
- Ask for a copy of your prescription so you can compare prices for glasses.
In this guide
Clear vision is essential for reading, driving, preventing falls and enjoying daily life. But eye exams and eyeglasses can be expensive, especially since Original Medicare generally does not cover routine vision care. Here are ways to make vision care more affordable.
Understand what Medicare covers
Original Medicare generally does not cover:
- Routine eye exams for glasses or contacts
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses
Original Medicare covers in some situations:
- Yearly glaucoma tests for people at high risk
- Yearly eye exams for people with diabetes
- Certain tests and treatments for eye conditions
- One pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery with an intraocular lens implant
Check other coverage options
- Medicare Advantage plans often include routine vision exams and allowances for glasses. Check the allowance amount and which providers are in network.
- Standalone vision insurance may help if you need glasses regularly. Compare the premium with what you would pay out of pocket.
- Medicaid covers some vision services for adults in many states.
- Veterans may be eligible for vision care through the VA.
Ask for your prescription
After an eye exam, you have the right to a copy of your eyeglass prescription. This lets you compare prices at different retailers. Federal rules require eye doctors to give you your prescription after an exam.
Shop around for glasses
Prices for frames and lenses vary widely. Options include:
- Warehouse clubs, which often have lower prices
- Online retailers, which may offer lower-cost frames and lenses
- Discount optical chains
- Independent optical shops, which sometimes have sales
When comparing, consider lens options and coatings, warranties and whether adjustments are included.
Ways to save on lenses and frames
- Reuse your frames if they are in good condition and only update the lenses.
- Choose only the lens features you need. Ask which coatings and upgrades are important for your eyes and lifestyle.
- Consider a backup pair of lower-cost glasses rather than a second premium pair.
- Ask about senior discounts or membership discounts.
- Look for promotions, such as two-for-one deals.
Reading glasses
If you only need help with close-up vision, over-the-counter reading glasses can be an inexpensive option. However, they are not a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam, which checks the health of your eyes, not just your vision.
Low-cost and free eye care programs
- EyeCare America, a program of the American Academy of Ophthalmology Foundation, provides eye exams for eligible older adults, often at no out-of-pocket cost.
- Lions Clubs in many communities help with eye exams and glasses.
- Optometry schools may offer lower-cost exams.
- Community health centers may offer eye care on a sliding fee scale.
- Nonprofit organizations help eligible people get exams and glasses.
Use pre-tax savings
If you have a health savings account (HSA) from before Medicare enrollment, you can generally use it for eye exams, glasses and contact lenses.
Do not skip eye exams
Saving money is important, but regular comprehensive eye exams help detect conditions that may not cause symptoms early on. Ask your eye doctor how often you should be seen.
Terrameritavi is an independent publication. This article is general information, not medical advice.
