Medicaid Eye Exams

Does Medicaid Pay for Contacts in Colorado?

Medicaid in Colorado provides coverage for medically necessary contact lenses, but under specific criteria. Typically, Medicaid covers contact lenses only if they are deemed necessary due to certain medical conditions, such as keratoconus or following eye surgery.

Does Medicaid Cover Glasses in Colorado?

Yes, Medicaid covers eyeglasses in Colorado. This includes coverage for one pair of glasses per year,  of single or multi-focal plastic lenses and one frame. If your prescription changes significantly within the year, you may be eligible for an additional pair. As a Colorado Medicaid vision provider, we help you select frames and lenses that fit within the coverage guidelines, ensuring that your vision needs are fully met.

Medicaid typically does not cover LASIK surgery in Colorado, as it is classified as an elective procedure. Exceptions apply only if LASIK is deemed medically necessary (e.g., severe corneal irregularities). For most patients, LASIK remains an out-of-pocket expense, but our Fort Collins optometrists at Poudre Valley Eyecare can discuss alternative payment plans or financing options.

Colorado Medicaid Vision Benefits at a Glance:

• ✅ Eyeglass Repairs: Covered for broken lenses or frames.
• ✅ Replacements: Provided if repairs are not cost-effective and deemed medically necessary.
• ❌ Contact Lens Supplies: Not covered under Medicaid.

Why Trust Poudre Valley Eyecare?
As experienced Colorado Medicaid and Medicare providers, we serve patients statewide and specialize in:

• Navigating vision coverage questions.
• Providing honest guidance on out-of-pocket costs.

For Official Details, always verify coverage changes via Colorado’s Health First Colorado Vision Benefits portal.

Common Eye Conditions Covered by Colorado Medicaid in Fort Collins

At Poudre Valley Eyecare, our Fort Collins Medicaid eye doctors diagnose and manage a range of conditions covered under Colorado Medicaid. Here’s what Northern Colorado residents should know:

• Glaucoma
  Medicaid covers annual screenings and treatment for this “silent thief of sight,” which damages optic nerves. Early detection is critical to prevent vision loss.
• Cataracts
  Coverage includes exams, surgery, and post-operative care for cloudy lenses affecting daily activities like driving or reading.
• Diabetic Retinopathy
  Routine monitoring and laser treatments are covered for diabetes-related retinal damage. Pro Tip: Schedule exams every 6-12 months if you have diabetes.
• Macular Degeneration
  Medicaid covers diagnostic testing (OCT scans) and medically necessary injections for age-related central vision loss.
• Keratoconus
  Medically necessary rigid contact lenses or corneal cross-linking may be covered for this progressive thinning disorder.

Why This Matters for Northern Colorado:

Many conditions (like glaucoma) lack early symptoms but are highly treatable when caught early. Our Fort Collins optometrists use advanced technology to detect issues before they impact your quality of life.

How to Apply for Medicaid Vision Benefits in Northern Colorado

Follow these steps to enroll in Health First Colorado’s vision coverage:

1. Check Eligibility
   • Income limits: Vary by household size (e.g., $1,677/month for a single adult in 2024).
   • Qualifying groups: Children, pregnant women, low-income adults, and seniors.
2. Gather Documents
   • Proof of Colorado residency (utility bill, lease).
   • Income verification (pay stubs, tax returns).
   • Social Security numbers for all applicants.
3. Apply Online or In-Person
   • Online: Visit Health First Colorado.
   • In-Person: Visit Larimer County Human Services (Fort Collins) or partner clinics like Poudre Valley Eyecare for assistance.
4. Confirm Vision Coverage
   • Call our Fort Collins office to verify benefits and schedule your exam.

Local Insight:

Many Northern Colorado schools and community centers host Medicaid enrollment fairs. Ask our team about upcoming events in Loveland, Greeley, or Windsor.

Emergency Eye Care Coverage for Fort Collins Medicaid Patients

Colorado Medicaid covers urgent eye issues requiring immediate attention. Here’s what’s included:

Covered Emergencies:

• Eye trauma (e.g., scratches, chemical burns).
• Sudden vision loss or flashes/floaters (possible retinal detachment).
• Infections (pink eye, styes) with pain or discharge.
• Foreign objects stuck in the eye.