Dr Kumar

Is LASIK covered by Medicare?

For individuals with poor vision who are seeking a solution, LASIK surgery can provide life-changing results. However, due to the cost of the procedure, it may not be a financially viable option for many.

The question is will Medicare in Australia provide coverage for LASIK surgery?

LASIK Surgery

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a type of eye surgery used to correct vision in people who are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. It involves reshaping the cornea, which is the clear covering of the front of the eye, using an excimer laser.

The goal of the procedure is to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

is lasik surgery covered by medicare
Medicare does not cover LASIK surgery as it is considered elective surgery.

 

Does Medicare cover LASIK surgery procedures?

 

Medicare does not cover the expenses associated with LASIK surgery since it is considered an elective procedure and does not have a valid Medicare item number. However, Medicare may offer rebates for consultations with specialist doctors with valid referrals.

 

The estimated cost of LASIK surgery typically starts at $3000 per eye, and most health insurance funds do not provide coverage for this type of vision correction procedure, unlike standard vision correction such as glasses and contact lenses.

 

Exploring Alternatives to Medicare coverage for LASIK eye laser surgery

A private health insurer in Australia may offer coverage for LASIK surgery, however, coverage may be limited and may vary depending on the level of coverage. Full costs may not be covered.

It is important to note that those health funds that offer cover for laser eye surgery may require members to serve a waiting period before the coverage is effective.

Typically health insurance providers that offer coverage for this, AMH requires members to wait for two years, while BUPA and Medibank have three-year waiting periods.

Vision Clinic Sydney

Vision Clinic Sydney can help with laser eye surgery. We can provide a comprehensive eye examination to determine the degree of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism, and the best course of treatment.

Depending on the severity of the condition, we may prescribe glasses, contact lenses, or other vision correction options such as surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you can find our most frequently asked questions:

Is laser eye surgery covered by Medicare Australia?

No, laser eye surgery is not covered by Medicare Australia. Medicare does not cover the treatment cost of elective surgeries such as laser eye surgery.
Only for medically required surgical procedures. However, some private health insurers may cover some of the costs associated with the procedure.

How much does laser eye surgery cost in Australia?

The cost of laser eye surgery in Australia can vary depending on the type of procedure and the individual clinic. Generally, the cost of laser eye surgery in Australia ranges from $3,000 to $3,500 per eye.

Meet Dr Kumar

Dr Nikhil Kumar is a highly qualified ophthalmologist with a degree in Medicine from the University of Newcastle, which he obtained in 1998. Following his graduation, he completed his ophthalmology specialty training at the Sydney Eye Hospital in 2008.

His expertise in the field of ophthalmology includes cataract surgery, refractive surgery, corneal transplantation, and laser vision correction. His passion for the eye and its intricacies inspired him to pursue Ophthalmology as a specialty.

How to book an appointment

For your first appointment, you must have a referral letter from your General Practitioner or Optometrist in order to be eligible for a Medicare rebate for the consultation and any tests/procedures you may have performed at the clinic.

If you don't have a referral letter, you can still be seen at the practice, but you won't be able to claim a Medicare rebate.

You can download the referral PDF form or submit it online.

Please bring:

  • Any prescription glasses that you wear
  • Sunglasses or a hat as your eyes may be dilated during the consultation, resulting in possible sensitivity to light and blurred vision. You may not be able to read or drive for 4 hours after your appointment.
  • A list of current medications and details of your medical history
  • Your Medicare card, private health fund card and pension card if you have them.

Our location in Sydney

We are located in the central business district of Sydney in New South Wales. Our physical address is Level 6, Suite 605, 229 Macquarie St., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.