Medicare Demonstration of Coverage for Low Vision Devices Act of 2022

Medicare Demonstration of Coverage for Low Vision Devices Act of 2022

This bill requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to carry out a demonstration project to evaluate the fiscal impact of covering low-vision devices under Medicare in the same manner as Medicare coverage is provided for durable medical equipment. The bill defines low-vision device to mean a physician-prescribed device that magnifies, enhances, or otherwise augments or interprets visual images; the term does not include ordinary eyeglasses or contact lenses.

The bill appropriates $2.5 million for FY2022 and each of the next four fiscal years for the CMS to carry out the project.

Bill 117 HR 6848, also known as the Medicare Demonstration of Coverage for Low Vision Devices Act of 2022, aims to establish a demonstration program within the Medicare program to provide coverage for low vision devices. These devices are designed to assist individuals with visual impairments in performing daily activities and tasks.

The bill specifies that the demonstration program will be conducted for a period of five years, during which Medicare will cover the cost of low vision devices for eligible beneficiaries. The goal of the program is to evaluate the impact of providing coverage for these devices on the quality of life and independence of individuals with visual impairments.

The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for beneficiaries to participate in the demonstration program, including having a documented visual impairment that cannot be corrected with standard eyeglasses or contact lenses. It also specifies the types of low vision devices that will be covered under the program, such as magnifiers, telescopes, and electronic devices. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to submit a report to Congress on the findings and outcomes of the demonstration program, including any recommendations for expanding coverage of low vision devices under Medicare. Overall, the Medicare Demonstration of Coverage for Low Vision Devices Act of 2022 seeks to improve access to essential assistive devices for individuals with visual impairments and evaluate the potential benefits of providing coverage for these devices under the Medicare program.