Insurance coverage for eye issues can be complex depending on the reason for the visit. There are two main types of eye appointments that we see in our office. 

• A vision exam is needed when someone is having a hard time seeing clearly, whether up close or at a distance. During this type of appointment, Dr. Carter works with the patient to determine what type of eyeglass or contact lens will help them to see better. This type of visit is covered by Vision Insurance such as VSP or EyeMed. Vision exams are also covered for patients who are part of the Medi-Cal program. For Medicare patients, the refraction portion of a vision exam is not covered, but the medical part is (see below).

• A medical eye exam is needed when someone is having ANY OTHER medical-type issue with their eyes such as the eye conditions and diseases listed here. This type of visit is generally covered by medical insurance such as Medicare, Anthem, Blue Shield, and others although some vision plans also provide coverage for essential medical eye issues.  Medical eye exams are also covered for patients who are part of the Medi-Cal program.