Glaucoma is a disease mostly associated with optic nerve damage and visual field changes. Though anyone can develop glaucoma, there are risk factors that may increase an individual’s chances of developing glaucoma. These risk factors may be age, race, family history and medical history. Glaucoma develops with little or no warning signs or symptoms. As vision loss caused due to glaucoma cannot be reverted, annual screening of people at high risk for the disease is very crucial.The glaucoma screening covered by Medicare includes a dilated eye examination with an intraocular pressure measurement, and a direct ophthalmoscopy examination or a slitlamp biomicroscopic examination.

Medicare Insurance covers an annual dilated eye examination for all people with Medicare who are at high risk for glaucoma. Medicare bears the cost for glaucoma screenings in an office setting under the direct supervision of an optometrist or ophthalmologist legally allowed to provide his services under State law. Medicare covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for glaucoma screening after the individual has paid the deductible for Part B services. It is advisable to check with the local Medicare Carrier for specific coverage information for glaucoma screening.

Health care professionals should take upon this responsibility to encourage all eligible Medicare beneficiaries who fall in one of the high risk groups to get regular glaucoma screenings.

For more information please visit us @ www.medigap4seniors.com, or call us at 888-502-5553 to speak with one of our Medicare experts.