Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases in which damage to the nerve located in the back of the eye (the optic nerve) results in loss of eyesight.

Medicare covers 80 percent of the cost of an annual (every 12 months) glaucoma screening if you are at high-risk for glaucoma. This coverage begins after you pay your annual Part B deductible. This means there is a 20 percent coinsurance for glaucoma screenings for those who have met their annual Part B deductible. The screening must be performed or supervised by an eye doctor who is licensed to provide this service in your state.

People are considered at high risk for glaucoma if they:

• Have a family history of glaucoma
• Have diabetes
• Are African American and age 50 or older
• Are Hispanic and age 65 or older

If you are in a Medicare private health plan you should contact your plan to see what rules and costs apply.