Medicare's paying less for cataract surgery: Eye doctors are turning to lucrative lasers
Cataract surgery—one of the most common operations paid for by Medicare—typically leaves enrollees owing a few hundred dollars. Some patients pay more to have their vision corrected during the procedure.
Medicare is paying less for cataract surgery, leading eye doctors to turn to more lucrative laser procedures. Cataract surgery is the most common operation paid for by Medicare, often resulting in patients owing a few hundred dollars. Some patients opt for laser-assisted surgery, which can correct vision and eliminate the need for glasses.
However, Medicare pays around $520 for a standard cataract procedure, down about 20% in the past decade. Doctors may, however, charge patients an additional $1,000 to $3,000 per eye when using the laser for premium lens insertion or astigmatism correction. Despite the higher cost, the laser method provides more precise cuts and allows doctors to recoup more revenue as Medicare cuts its payments.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that there is no evidence to suggest laser surgery results in fewer complications or better outcomes than the scalpel method. Yet, laser-assisted cataract surgery is increasingly offered at $1,000–$3,000 per eye, helping to offset declining Medicare reimbursement.
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