Medicare Cuts Drive Surge in Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery
Medicare pays about $520 for a standard cataract operation, and reimbursements have fallen over the past decade, even as more doctors offer laser-assisted cataract surgery that can add roughly $1,000–$3,000 in patient out-of-pocket costs per eye plus $1,000–$4,000 for premium lenses. Studies show laser does not improve outcomes for standard cataracts, though private insurers generally follow Medicare rules. About 12% of the roughly 5 million annual cataract surgeries are laser-assisted—and the share is rising as doctors face lower reimbursements and higher equipment costs—while patients are urged to choose after being educated on all options; critics call it a revenue booster, supporters say it offers precision and choice.