CMS in collaboration with the
American Academy
of Ophthalmology (AAO) (External Link) and the
American Optometric
Association (AOA) (External Link) has initiated a National program for Medicare
beneficiaries with diabetes to encourage them to get their eyes examined. Under
the initiative, beneficiaries age 65 and older who have diabetes and haven't had
a medical eye exam in the past three years, will be matched with a volunteer ophthalmologist
in their area. They'll receive a free comprehensive eye exam and up to one year
of follow-up care for any condition diagnosed at the initial exam. To get the name
of an ophthalmologist participating in the
EyeCare AmericaSM (External Link) - National Eye Care Project® in a specific
area, call the 24 hour toll-free number at 1-800-222-3937.
Beneficiaries can also call the American Optometric Association's Diabetes Hot Line
at 1-800-262-3947 (7AM - 7PM Monday through Friday CST) to be matched with an optometrist
in your area who will perform an eye exam and arrange for subsequent care. Depending
on financial need, the optometrist may waive the Medicare.
Links to external resources are provided as a public service and do not imply endorsement by the Washington State Department of Health.