Ophthalmic Coding Specialist Practice Test

Are post cataract glasses for a patient at age 65 considered a covered benefit?

1. No, they are not covered

2. Yes, they are covered

3. Only if prescribed

4. Only if obtained within a year

The correct answer is: Yes, they are covered

Post-cataract glasses for a patient aged 65 are typically considered a covered benefit because Medicare generally provides coverage for necessary eyewear following cataract surgery. The rationale behind this coverage is that cataract surgery can significantly change a patient's vision, often requiring adjustments to their visual aids. In the context of Medicare, once cataract surgery has been performed, beneficiaries may be eligible for a new pair of glasses or contact lenses to aid in their vision correction. This is viewed as an essential follow-up to the surgery, supporting the patient's overall visual health and daily functioning. Other options may lack the same comprehensiveness. For instance, while glasses may need to be prescribed to be justified as a necessary treatment, the initial statement of coverage already implies that they follow surgical intervention. Additionally, there is typically not a strict time frame like one year implied for coverage; instead, it hinges on the need created by the cataract surgery itself rather than an arbitrary timeline. In summary, post-cataract glasses are generally covered as they address a specific need that arises from the surgical procedure, making them a necessary component of post-operative care for those undergoing cataract extraction.