关于Cataract 手术

术前检查要问的3个问题：

1: What kind of Vision result you want (Distance: long , intermediate, short), Glass free?

2: Do you have astigmatism? ( if you do, Then Toric lense)

3: Any other optic health issues? any other disease like diabetes?

 

最重要的：what type, and what brand of Lense you will choose:

材料科技近年也是突飞猛进，Envy在美国已经很长时间用于临床， 加拿大安省2025 5月才开始第一例。

 

### What is Refraction in the Context of Insurance?

Based on common usage in healthcare, "refractive insurance" likely refers to **insurance coverage related to refractive eye care services**, such as refraction testing during eye exams or procedures to correct refractive errors (e.g., nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism). This isn't a formal term like "health insurance," but it's often discussed in optometry and ophthalmology. I'll break it down below.

#### 1. **What is Refraction?**
   - Refraction is a standard part of a comprehensive eye exam. It's the process where an eye doctor uses a phoropter (a device with different lenses) to test how light bends (refracts) as it passes through your eye's lens and cornea.
   - The goal: Determine your exact eyeglass or contact lens prescription to achieve the sharpest vision.
   - It's quick (5–10 minutes) but requires skilled interpretation by the doctor.

#### 2. **Insurance Coverage for Refraction Testing**
   - **Health/Medical Insurance (e.g., Medicare, private plans)**: Often **does not cover** the refraction fee (typically $25–$50). Why? It's considered part of "routine vision care" rather than diagnosing/treating a medical condition like glaucoma. Medicare explicitly excludes it, treating it as elective.
   - **Vision Insurance (e.g., VSP, EyeMed)**: Usually **covers** it fully or with a copay, as these plans are designed for routine eye care. Standalone vision plans can supplement Medicare.
   - **Medicaid**: Varies by state; some cover it under expanded benefits.
   - **Out-of-Pocket Tip**: If uncovered, it's a separate bill from the exam itself. Always confirm with your provider beforehand.

#### 3. **Insurance for Refractive Procedures (e.g., LASIK or Refractive Lens Exchange)**
   - These are surgeries to permanently correct refractive errors without glasses/contacts.
   - **Standard Coverage**: Most health insurance **does not cover** elective refractive surgery like LASIK (costs $2,000–$3,000 per eye). It's seen as cosmetic.
   - **Exceptions**:
     - If tied to a medical need (e.g., post-cataract surgery), some plans may partially cover.
     - Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) for presbyopia or high prescriptions: Rarely covered; considered elective.
     - Employer plans or discounts: Some offer LASIK rebates or financing.
   - **Alternatives**: FSA/HSA accounts can pay pre-tax, or look for vision insurance add-ons.

#### Key Differences: Medical vs. Vision Insurance

Aspect	Medical/Health Insurance	Vision Insurance
Covers Refraction?	Usually no (elective)	Yes, often fully
Eye Exam	Yes, for medical issues (e.g., disease)	Yes, routine exams
Glasses/Contacts	No	Yes, with copays
Surgery (e.g., LASIK)	Rarely, only if medically necessary	No, but may offer discounts
Examples	Medicare Part B, Blue Cross PPO	VSP, Aetna Vision

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