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Qualifying Vision for Cataract Surgery
We've mentioned many times that routine cataract surgery is scheduled when there is documented visual impairment related to the cloudy lens: difficulty driving, trouble reading, etc. That is to say, cataract surgery is performed when the patient (not the surgeon) decides the time is right.
That doesn't always mean that patients with 20/20 eyesight can have cataract surgery just because there is a little glare when driving at night. To prevent abuse some states have established minimum standards that qualify the procedure for insurance reimbursement. Yes, there are always waivers and exceptions for unusual circumstances, but the following states require best-corrected preoperative vision at or below these levels:
20/40 or worse: DE, DC, MD, PA, TX, VA
20/50 or worse: GA, ID, IN, KY, MT, NC, OH, SC, TN, WV
Don't worry! Your surgeon's staff will not schedule your cataract operation unless the procedure is already pre-authorized by the insurer.
Related Topics: WebMD Video: Focus on DSAEK Eye Surgery, Eye Health Center
Technorati Tags: cataracts, insurance benefits
That doesn't always mean that patients with 20/20 eyesight can have cataract surgery just because there is a little glare when driving at night. To prevent abuse some states have established minimum standards that qualify the procedure for insurance reimbursement. Yes, there are always waivers and exceptions for unusual circumstances, but the following states require best-corrected preoperative vision at or below these levels:
20/40 or worse: DE, DC, MD, PA, TX, VA
20/50 or worse: GA, ID, IN, KY, MT, NC, OH, SC, TN, WV
Don't worry! Your surgeon's staff will not schedule your cataract operation unless the procedure is already pre-authorized by the insurer.
Related Topics: WebMD Video: Focus on DSAEK Eye Surgery, Eye Health Center
Technorati Tags: cataracts, insurance benefits
