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National Diabetes Eye Exam Program

(For more information, contact Kathy Winchester.)

 

CMS in collaboration with the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the American Optometric Association (AOA) 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 – 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 deductible and co-payment for this service.

Last Modified on Thursday, September 16, 2004