Vision problems don’t wait for your budget — and if you’re relying on Medicare, you’ve probably wondered what’s actually covered for your eyes. The truth about Medicare vision coverage in 2026 is that while critical needs like cataract surgery and glaucoma screenings are included, routine exams, glasses, and contacts usually aren’t. That gap leaves many seniors surprised with out-of-pocket costs they never planned for.
Skyline Benefit is an independent Medicare insurance broker helping seniors nationwide compare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D options. We’ll break down exactly what Medicare covers for your eyes in 2026 — and how the right plan can add the benefits Original Medicare leaves out.
What Does Medicare Vision Coverage in 2026 Include Under Original Medicare?
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) offers very limited vision coverage.
- Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers eye care only if it’s related to an inpatient stay, such as surgery after a traumatic injury.
- Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers medically necessary services, including:
- Yearly eye exams for people with diabetes (to check for diabetic retinopathy).
- Annual glaucoma screenings if you’re at high risk (family history, diabetes, African American age 50+, Hispanic American age 65+). You’ll pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the Part B deductible.
- Exams and treatment after cataract surgery (Medicare pays for one pair of glasses or contact lenses after the surgery).
- Tests and treatment for macular degeneration.
What’s missing? Routine eye exams, glasses, or contacts are not covered under Original Medicare.
How Do Medicare Advantage Plans Handle Vision in 2026?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans must cover everything Original Medicare does — but many add extra benefits. Based on 2026 plan documents:
- $0 Copay Exams: Many Medicare Advantage plans list $0 copays for Medicare-covered eye exams (glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic screenings).
- Routine Eye Exams: Advantage plans often include one routine eye exam per year, something Original Medicare never covers.
- Glasses/Contacts: Most MA plans include allowances (e.g., 1 pair of glasses or 1 set of contacts per year). After cataract surgery, Medicare covers standard glasses.
- Expanded Coverage: Some plans include extras such as coverage for age-related macular degeneration and additional diabetic eye screenings.
Key Limitations to Remember in 2026
Even with Advantage plans, there are limits:
- Frames & Lens Upgrades: Medicare covers only standard lenses and frames after cataract surgery — premium upgrades like anti-glare or progressive lenses aren’t included.
- Provider Networks: HMO plans require you to stay in-network, while PPO plans allow out-of-network providers at a higher cost.
- Prior Authorization: Some plans require approval for certain procedures or specialty treatments.
How to Get the Best Medicare Vision Coverage in 2026
- Check Your Plan Documents: Don’t assume your Advantage plan automatically covers routine eye exams or glasses.
- Compare Benefits: Some plans add higher allowances for eyewear, which can save you hundreds each year.
- Supplement If Needed: If vision coverage is a priority, ask about stand-alone vision policies or choose a Medicare Advantage plan with stronger eye benefits.
Need Help Understanding Medicare Vision Coverage in 2026?
Skyline Benefit is an independent Medicare broker here to make things simple. We’ll compare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plans nationwide — and show you which options actually include vision coverage.
Call us at: (714) 888-5112