Routine exams and glasses aren't covered
Medicare.gov says Medicare doesn't cover routine eye exams, sometimes called eye refractions, for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Part B doesn't usually cover the glasses or contacts either.
If you have only Original Medicare, plan on paying the full cost of a yearly exam and new lenses yourself.
What Part B does cover
After each cataract surgery with an intraocular lens, Part B covers one pair of glasses with standard frames, or one set of contacts. Upgraded frames cost extra, and the glasses must come from a supplier that participates in Medicare.
Part B also covers a diabetic retinopathy exam once a year if you have diabetes, and a glaucoma screening once every 12 months if you are at high risk. High risk includes diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, being African American and 50 or older, or being Hispanic and 65 or older. In 2026 you pay 20% after the $283 deductible, plus a copay in a hospital outpatient setting.
| Service | Covered? | What you pay in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Routine eye exam for glasses or contacts | No | All costs |
| Eyeglasses or contacts (routine) | No | All costs |
| One pair of glasses after each cataract surgery with an implanted lens | Yes, Part B | 20% after the $283 deductible |
| Diabetic retinopathy exam (with diabetes) | Yes, once a year | 20% after the $283 deductible |
| Glaucoma screening (high risk) | Yes, every 12 months | 20% after the $283 deductible |
Getting vision coverage
Some Medicare Advantage plans include vision benefits that Original Medicare doesn't, such as a yearly exam and an allowance for glasses. Our county guides, such as Duval County, list every 2027 plan.
With Original Medicare, a stand-alone vision plan is the other option. Our vision insurance savings calculator shows whether it pays for itself, and our dental and vision service can help you compare.