How to search for an eye doctor
When you click or tap the link associated with your insurance carrier, you’ll arrive at their “find an eye doctor” page.
From there, search by location to find a nearby, in-network optometrist or ophthalmologist who accepts your Medicare plan coverage.
To complete your search, you may need to input the following information:
- Medicare ID card
- Plan year and type
- Home address
- ZIP code
Helpful tips for finding the right eye doctor
When searching for the right eye doctor for you, the first thing to consider is whether you need to see an optometrist or an ophthalmologist.
Optometrists
- Perform routine eye care, such as prescribing and fitting glasses and contact lenses, and detecting and treating common eye conditions
- Focus on non-invasive, non-surgical eye care
Ophthalmologists
- Diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions and diseases,
- Manage more complex and severe eye issues
- May perform eye surgeries, such as laser vision correction, cataract surgery, and corneal transplants
Once you’ve determined which type of eye doctor you’d like to see, choosing an eye-care provider is similar to choosing any other medical provider.
- Research ratings and reviews
- Make preliminary office visits to evaluate staff and facilities
- Check out providers’ specialized service offerings to see that they match with your preferences