Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
Hi, I'm Shantanu Agrawal Medical Director for the Center for Program Integrity
at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. If you have a minute, I have
some important information about Medicare and Cataract Awareness Month this
June.
A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye. Most people develop some
mild clouding of the eye lens after age 60. About 50% of people ages 65-74 have
cataracts that affect their vision.
Cataracts generally lead to decreased vision, even in daylight. Most people with
cataracts have similar changes in both eyes, although one eye may be worse that
the other. Many people with this condition have only mild vision changes.
Cataracts develop more quickly if there are some environmental factors, such as
smoking, exposure to other toxic substances and exposure to excessive
ultraviolet light or sunlight. They may develop at any time after an eye injury.
Diseases such as diabetes also greatly increase the risk for cataracts. Certain
medications, such as cortisone, can also speed up cataract formation.
Medicare Part B covers cataract surgery performed by a physician. Following
cataract surgery Medicare helps pay for cataract glasses, contact lenses, or
intraocular lenses provided by an ophthalmologist.
For more information on eye health and services covered by Medicare, visit us at
www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.