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Many eye doctors, including optometrists and ophthalmologists, accept Medicaid as a form of coverage. But calling their offices one by one to check can be frustrating.

Fortunately, the search tool below can automatically provide a list of eye doctors that take Medicaid near you.

To qualify for Medicaid you need to meet certain eligibility requirements, including an income level under a certain threshold. For more information on Medicaid eligibility, and how you can apply, contact your state’s Medicaid office.

How can I find eye doctors who take Medicaid near me?

The search tool on this page will sort through the vision care locations in your area and find eye doctors who specifically accept Medicaid, as well as other forms of coverage.

1. Start by selecting “Edit Search” in the middle of the toolbar, at the bottom of the locator. The “Edit Search” box should pop up from the bottom on the page. 

2. Click the first line titled “Visit an Eye Doctor.”

3. Add your location to the box that says “Enter address or postal code.” You can do this by typing your address or postal code or by clicking the blue circle to the right (which will automatically find your location).

4. In the third box, where you can choose your insurance provider, scroll down until you see “Medicaid” and select it. 

Once you’ve made your selections, click the “Find” button at the bottom of the “Edit Search” box.

If you need to select other details — such as the doctor’s specialty or hours of operation — you can do so by selecting them from the “Filter” option on the toolbar.

You should now see a list of eye doctors and vision offices in their area, with a “Map View” option on the right. The offices listed (either on the map or on the list) all accept Medicaid as a form of coverage.

To verify your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket expenses, don’t forget to speak with a member of the office staff before your visit.

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Which vision expenses does Medicaid cover?

The federal government doesn’t require states to cover vision expenses — but many states cover them anyway.

Eye-related expenses for children and people under age 21 are covered under Medicaid’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) program. These expenses include:

• Eye exams

• Eyeglass frames

• Eyeglass lenses

Each state decides how often you will be able to use your benefits. To verify benefit availability, or to double-check that your benefits cover part (or all) of your visit, contact the Medicaid office in the state where you live.

READ NEXT: Your guide to Medicaid coverage's vision benefits

Page published on Wednesday, May 12, 2021