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Low vision bill introduced in House
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WASHINGTON — The Medicare Vision Rehabilitation Services Act of 2001, H.R. 2484, introduced in the House of Representatives yesterday, is wholeheartedly endorsed by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).
“This is not a new benefit, but rather it standardizes coverage so that all Medicare patients in need of vision rehabilitation services have equal access to them regardless of where in the United States they live,” said Catherine Cohen, AAO vice president for governmental affairs. “In addition, the bill expands access to services even in states that currently have coverage, by allowing certified vision rehabilitation professionals under a physician’s general supervision to provide services in the home.” At present, only physicians and independent occupational therapists under the prescription of a physician can provide services in the home.
The bill was introduced by Reps. Michael Capuano, D-Mass., and Mark Foley, R-Fla., to fill gaps in coverage for Medicare beneficiaries who experience low vision caused by a variety of medical conditions, according to the AAO. The original cosponsors also include Ed Towns, D-N.Y., Steve Buyer, R-Ind., and Dave Weldon, R-Fla.
Medicare currently covers low vision evaluations by ophthalmologists, but many beneficiaries then lack coverage for prescribed therapy. The coverage for vision rehabilitation therapy depends on where beneficiaries live. Only 26 states currently cover therapy services, through either written or unwritten local Medicare carrier policies.
Certified vision rehabilitation professionals include orientation and mobility specialists, rehabilitation teachers and low vision therapists.