Most insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, only covers vision services when provided by a medical professional, and very few of them are qualified providers. Insurers do not cover vision services provided by the Council. We believe that should change.
The Issue
• In most cases, the cost of the vision services we provide must either be paid by the client or absorbed by the Council if they are unable to pay.
• The Council receives fee-for-service payment from a few referring agencies, but that applies to less than 10% of our clients.
• Lack of coverage discourages some people with limited income from seeking services, and subsidizing the cost for clients unable to pay puts a strain on Council resources.
• Vision services are not covered because they are considered “social” rather than “medical” care. This ignores the positive impact vision services have on health, such as fall prevention, better medication management, and improved mental health.
• Vision services are preventive care. That means covering them would save insurers money in the long run.
What Can You Do?
Tell your doctor and insurance provider how important vision services are in keeping you safe, healthy and independent.