Use of Visual Tests Prior to and General Anesthesia during Cataract Surgery

For cataract surgery with IOL implantation, Medicare routinely covers a single preoperative comprehensive eye examination and one scan (A‑scan; B‑scan only if medically justified, e.g., dense cataract) to determine IOL power. Additional preoperative tests are not covered unless there is an additional diagnosis and full medical documentation of need; general anesthesia is covered only for specific medical indications when its use is accepted among local ophthalmologists and supported by documentation.

"One preoperative comprehensive eye examination (ocular history and ocular examination) is covered prior to cataract surgery with IOL implant."

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