Vision Loss Costing Medicare Billions

A recent study, published the journal Ophthalmology, found that poor vision is costing Medicare more than $2 billion per year due to the increased non-eye related illnesses and healthcare needs for those with vision loss. The study concluded that those with moderate, severe and total vision loss experienced increases in depression, injuries and the need for nursing home facilities.

The findings have prompted an outcry from the American Academy of Ophthalmology for Medicare, vision health plans and other medical insurance plans to place a stronger emphasis on providing preventive eye care and education. "Preventing vision loss saves both sight and money," said H. Dunbar Hoskins, MD, executive vice president for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. "With this study, we are seeing the serious economic impact of poor vision health on the health care system and those who pay for it."

While Medicare includes a vision health plan, less than 45 percent of Medicare diabetics have had an eye exam. In these statistics it is evident that education is key.

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American Academy of Ophthalmology: Vision Loss Costing Medicare Billions