We Are a Humana Gold-Approved Provider

Silverstein Eye Centers is pleased to announce that we now accept Humana Gold insurance plans.

Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over the age of 65, many of whom are also enrolled in Medicare. Silverstein Eye Centers has partnered with Humana to support the Humana Gold insurance programs — Medicare supplement plans with benefits that can help cover the cost of medically-necessary vision correction procedures like cataract surgery.

What is Humana Gold?

Humana is a medical insurance company that provides insurance coverage through a variety of plans, one category of which is referred to as “Humana Gold.” The Gold program offers an HMO plan (Humana Gold Plus HMO) as well as a private fee-for-service option (Humana Gold Choice PFFS).

Are Humana Gold and Medicare the Same Thing?

Many patients ask us about Humana Gold assuming that it’s the same thing as Medicare. This is a common misconception. Humana Gold insurance is NOT a Medicare plan, although Humana does offer Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans; both of which are designed to supplement basic Medicare coverage.

What eye care procedures are covered by Medicare?

Routine vision care, including prescription eyeglasses, is not covered by Original Medicare – but there are some exceptions:

For patients with diabetes and diabetic retinopathy, an annual eye exam is covered by Medicare. Eye exams for diagnostic purposes, such as testing for macular degeneration, glaucoma, or other conditions may also be covered. Medicare helps cover cataract surgery and/or intraocular lens implants, and Medicare Part B will also help cover the cost of any medically-necessary eyeglasses or prescription contact lenses following cataract surgery.

Many Medicare Advantage plans also include extra benefits to help cover the cost of procedures that aren’t medically necessary, like LASIK and PRK. Please contact our office if you have questions about your specific insurance plan and coverage.