First Choice Medicaid Eye Doctors

Make Us Your First Choice Today

Already on a Medicaid plan Switch to First Choice and complete a New Member Orientation within 30 days of enrollment and you will get a $25 Walmart gift card!*

*Limit one per household per lifetime. Walmart gift card is restricted from the purchase of alcohol, tobacco, and firearm products.

Learn more about other great benefitsand reasons to Make Us Your First Choice.

If you are already a member of another Healthy Connections health plan, you may be able to switch to First Choice. Learn more from Healthy Connections Choices.

To change health plans, visit the Healthy Connections Choices website or call Healthy Connections Customer Service Center at 1-877-552-4642.

You’re Invited To Join A Teleecho Clinic

After completing a series of highly successful Foster Care TeleECHO clinics from January to June 2021, Select Health of South Carolina is excited to launch another series of TeleECHO clinics. Presented in collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Social Services and Medical University of South Carolina Childrens Health Department, these clinics are an emerging, case-based learning model to improve health care providers capacity to treat children and youth in South Carolinas foster care system.

At TeleECHO clinics, practitioners from multiple locations connect via teleconferencing to present de-identified patient cases to a team of peers and experts for mentoring and shared learning. Case-based discussions may also be supplemented with short didactic presentations to improve content knowledge and share evidence-based practices.

This opportunity is provided at no cost for participating Select Health practitioners. Our second Foster Care TeleECHO clinic series will begin on September 14, 2021, at 12:30 p.m. Ongoing sessions will be held every other Tuesday from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. ET. Learn more about the Foster Care TeleECHO clinic or register to participate.

Laser Treatment Can Be First Choice For Glaucoma

by Matossian Eye Associates | Nov 22, 2021

Laser Treatment Can Be First Choice for Glaucoma

Researchers reporting in The Lancet on the LiGHT Study concluded that a change in the clinical practice pattern of how we treat glaucoma should be implemented so that glaucoma laser treatment was a first choice treatment, rather than eye drops which is the typical approach to glaucoma treatment. The LiGHT Study compared eye drops to glaucoma Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty treatment in terms of lowering intraocular pressure, health related quality of life, cost and cost effectiveness. The data was gathered and analyzed and concluded that Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty should be offered as a first-line treatment for open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension, supporting a change in clinical practice.

If you or someone you know is at risk for glaucoma, has ocular hypertension or is being treated for glaucoma, please be certain you have regular eye exams with glaucoma testing to prevent vision loss. Ask your eye doctor about treatment options such as SLT for glaucoma when you schedule your exam at Matossian Eye Associates in Pennington, NJ at 609-882-8833, Hamilton, NJ at or Doylestown, PA at 215-230-9200, or visit Matossian Eye Associates or .

Recent Posts

You May Like: Does Medicaid Pay For Implant Dentures

For Your Convenience We Have Quest Labs Located Within Some Of Our Health Centers Click Here For A Larger Version Of The Above List

Virtual Visits

Visitas de Telemedicina

First Choice is now offering tele-health visits. Our providers can examine you, treat you, and prescribe medication to you via phone, using your computer via our patient portal, or via the Healow app.

First Choice ahora ofrece visitas de telemedicina. Nuestros proveedores pueden examinarlo, tratarlo y recetarle medicamentos por teléfono, utilizando su computadora a través de nuestro portal para pacientes o via la aplicación Healow.

for a guide to using our patient portal to be seen by one of our providers.

Haga clic aquí obtener una guía sobre el uso de nuestro portal del paciente para que lo vea uno de nuestros proveedores.for a Healow App Users Guide for information on using Healow to be seen by one of our providers using your phone or computer.

Haga clic aquípara obtener una Guía del usuario de la aplicación Healow para obtener información sobre el uso de Healow para que uno de nuestros proveedores lo vea usando su teléfono o computadora.for a Healow App Installation Instructions to help you set-up the Healow app.

Haga clic aquí para obtener las instrucciones de instalación de la aplicación Healow para ayudarlo a configurar la aplicación Healow.

To make an appointment for a tele-health or in person appointment, call us: 860-258-1359.

Para hacer una cita de telesalud o en persona, llámenos al 860-528-1359.

Every Step Of The Way 2019/2020 Report To The Community

Our whole-person approach is serving members throughout the state by providing access to far more than clinical care. Through partnerships with community organizations, local businesses, state government, and many caring individuals, we are addressing the various social issues that affect a persons health, including healthy lifestyles, support networks, education, and technology supports.

Don’t Miss: How Do You Apply For Medicaid In Ny

David Hays Od Diplomate American Board Of Optometry

Dr. Hays graduated from Pacific University College of Optometry. He grew up in University Place, graduated from Curtis High School, and upon completion of optometry school he returned to practice optometry with his father Dr. Sidney Hays. Dr. Hays is member of the Optometric Physicians of Washington , American Medical Athletic Association, and the Optometric Education Foundation . He is also a member of the American Optometric Association , including both the Contact Lens and Sports Vision Sections. Dr. Hays was president of the Optometric Physicians of Washington. As an early practitioner, Dr. Hays, was the recipient of the Young OD of the Year award by his peers. He has also served as a council member of the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education . Dr. Hays believes in giving back to the community, especially at the local level. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce in University Place and Yelm. He has volunteered at school screenings and is a provider for the InfantSee TM program, which provides no-cost vision screenings for babies within their first year of life. He also is a provider for Vision USA, which provides patients in financial need with desperately needed eye care. Dr. Hays enjoys spending time with his wife Karen, their 2 children and one Grandson. Dr. Hays is a former runner, who also has interests in photography, spending time outdoors, and sailing the Puget Sound.

Look At Your Insurance Id Card

The only way to generate an accurate list of local eye doctors that accepts Medicaid is to pull out your insurance ID card and look for the name of the private insurance company that administers your plan.

Even though Medicaid is a government program, most states outsource the administrative functions to private insurance companies. For example, you might find one of these familiar brands managing your health, vision, and dental benefits.

• Aetna Better Health: CA, FL, IL, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TX, WV, VA
• Amerigroup: NJ
• Anthem: CA, IN, KY, NV, VA, WI
• Blue Cross Blue Shield: is a national federation of affiliated companies using this trade name, operating in twenty-four states
• Caresource: GA, IN, OH
• Staywell: FL
• Wellcare: AZ, FL, GA, HI, KY, MO, NE, NJ, NY, SC

Your insurance ID card provides the official map of your hidden treasure. On it, you should find a company name and website address. Open a web browser and visit the URL listed on your card.

Also Check: Tens Unit Covered By Medicaid

Our Augusta Ga And Beaufort And Aiken Sc Eye Care Teams Are Here To Help You With Your Insurance

If you do not see your plan listed here, please give us a call and we would be happy to assist you. Our staff is also always available to answer any questions regarding your benefits.

The cost of routine eye exams and prescription eyewear can be of real concern, especially for large families. In many cases, vision insurance can lower these annual expenses.

A vision insurance policy is not the same as medical insurance. Regular medical health insurance plans protect you against financial losses due to unexpected eye injuries or disease. Vision insurance, on the other hand, is a wellness benefit designed to provide routine eye care, prescription eyewear and other vision-related services at a reduced cost.

Our Approach To Optometry

Our one-on-one approach to optometry makes us the eye and vision care providers of choice in the Matthews area. Our Matthews optometrist offers the following services: complete eye exams, contact lenses, glasses, glaucoma testing, and pre- and post-operative care. For a complete list of services, visit our services page or call our Matthews office at 704-893-0090.

At First Choice Eye Care, we are dedicated to providing high-quality optometry services in a comfortable environment. Call us at 704-893-0090 or schedule an appointment today online.

Dr. Kevin BighamMatthews Optometrist | First Choice Eye Care | 704-893-0090

14617 Lawyers Rd Suite AMatthews, NC 28104

Read Also: Does Medicaid Cover All Pregnancy Costs

Confirm Details Before Your Appointment

Now that you have the official list of local eye doctors who accept the specific Medicaid plan you have, you should contact the provider to confirm several details before booking an appointment. You do not want any nasty surprises.

• Provider directories are not always up-to-date. Call the vision center to verify that they still participate in your plan. Be specific.
• Ask if they are taking new patients covered by Medicaid. Many providers treat a set number of low-income families to serve a public good. However, they often lose money on each individual because reimbursement rates are meager, so they institute a limit.

Good luck!

Dont Miss Annual Enrollment Period

Annual Enrollment Period is your time to get the health benefits you need to maintain your health and wellness. The Annual Enrollment Period Dates are October 15th to December 7th.

The professionals at First Choice Medical Group can help walk you through the process. Were here to support you and give you the resources you need to maintain a high level of quality care.

Get in touch with us today and live a healthier tomorrow!

Medicare Part A: Hospital Services

In general, Part A covers:

• Inpatient care in a hospital
• Skilled nursing facility care
• Inpatient care in a skilled nursing facility
• Hospice care

What is not covered by Medicare Part A:

• Long-term care
• Most dental care
• Eye examinations related to prescribing glasses
• Dentures
• Hearing aids and exams for fitting them
• Routine foot care
• Observation status in the hospital

Medicare Part B: Medical Service

Part B helps pay for the care you receive from doctors. It also covers:

• Outpatient care
• Durable Medical Equipment and supplies
• Preventive care and Routine care, including mammography and Pap tests
• Getting a second opinion before surgery

Medicare Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans provide all benefits covered by Part A and Part B and more.

Some include vision, hearing, and dental coverage, plus wellness programs. Some also provide free transportation services for medical appointments. Most plans include coverage for prescription drugs at no additional charge.

Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Plans

You May Like: Medicaid Health Insurance Income Limits

How To Get A List Of Local Eye Doctors That Accept Medicaid

Many people are confused about how to get a list of nearby eye doctors that accept Medicaid patients.

Insurance is a complex topic, and adding layers of government rules makes things even more convoluted. Fortunately, there is a simple process to follow.

Please dont make the common mistake of asking the wrong question: whether a specific vision center takes Medicaid or the state nickname for their program.

Instead, start by verifying coverage in your state and your eligibility for benefits. Skip asking the wrong questions, going straight to your insurance ID card and then the online provider directory.

Finally, call each provider to verify critical details before booking your appointment.

What Are My Eye Care Benefits

Members are eligible for 2 routine eye examinations every calendar year, or more often if medically necessary.* No referral is needed for routine eye exams. Members under 21 are also entitled to 2 pairs of prescription eyeglasses every 12 months, or more often if medically necessary. Prescription contacts may also be chosen.

Keystone First does not cover prescription eyeglasses or prescription contact lenses for members 21 years of age and older, but there are special provisions for members with aphakia or cataracts. Call Member Services at 1-800-521-6860 for more information.

*There may be co-pays for some eye care services. Please see the member co-payment schedule for more information.

Don’t Miss: Does Medicaid Cover Root Canals For Adults

Go To The Online Provider Directory

The online provider directory published by the private insurance company printed on your insurance ID card is the ultimate authority. Only they can provide an official listing of local eye doctors accepting the Medicaid plan that you have.

Register to create an online profile or log in if you have already done so. Surf over to the provider directory and select the exact plan name . Input your zip code and the type of specialist you need to see.

• Opticians are the least likely to take Medicaid patients because they design, fit, and dispense eyeglasses. Your state may have no coverage or strict limits on how often you can replace an old pair or update a prescription.
• Optometrists are also less likely to take Medicaid because many states limit how often patients can undergo vision exams to detect refractive errors and update prescriptions for corrective lenses.
• Ophthalmologists are more likely to take Medicaid patients throughout the country because they have medical degrees and treat eye diseases that fall into the medically necessary category. Your plan acts like health insurance in these instances.
• Pediatric eye doctors are most likely to take Medicaid patients across the country because the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment program requires vision benefits up to age 21. Plus, the same holds for the Childrens Health Insurance Plan

We Make Every Effort To Keep The Cost Of Your Medical Care Down

If you do not have insurance, we offer a 10% discount for full payment on day of service.

Big Sky Eye Care participates with many insurance plans, and we will be happy to submit your insurance claims for you. We only file charges that are covered by your medical insurance plan. We encourage you to discuss any questions you may have regarding our policies with our billing staff.

In order for us to bill accurately, we will need copies of your current insurance cards that include identification numbers, group numbers, claim address and phone number. Please inform us, prior to your appointment, if there is a change in insurance coverage to ensure accurate billing.

You are responsible for any amount not covered by your plan. Payment of co-payments, deductibles and uninsured amounts are required at the time of service. We accept payment by cash, checks, VISA, Master Card, American Express or Discover and Care Credit.

Note: Your health insurance contract is between you and your insurance company. Any questions regarding your specific coverage, including referrals and authorizations, should be directed to your insurance company or your company benefits administrator.

A comprehensive list of the insurance companies Big Sky Eye Care participates is below. If your insurance company is not listed, please contact our office and we would be happy to accommodate your needs.

Don’t Miss: Dentist In Louisiana That Accept Medicaid For Adults

Use The Links Below To Start Your Search

Doctor.com can help you find a Optometrist who accepts Medicaid insurance in South Carolina. Doctors of optometry are the primary health care professionals for the eye. Optometrists examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as identify Related systemic conditions affecting the eye. An optometrist has completed pre-professional undergraduate education in a college or university and four years of professional education at a college of optometry, leading to the doctor of optometry degree. Some optometrists complete an optional residency in a specific area of practice. Optometrists are eye health care professionals state-licensed to diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the eye and visual system.

Confirm Medicaid Pays For The Vision Service

The second step before generating a list of neighborhood eye doctors accepting Medicaid is to confirm whether you are eligible for the specific vision service you need.

You might find a neighborhood provider taking new patients only to find out that you do not qualify for a specific service because your timing is off.

For example, each state sets different parameters about how often you can get an exam to measure refractive errors. Also, your state may have a similar schedule for how often you can get new prescription eyeglasses, frames, or contact lenses.

Recommended Reading: Texas Children’s Health Plan Star Medicaid

Stop Asking About Medicaid Nicknames

Also, stop asking which eye doctors accept the state-designated nickname for your Medicaid plan. This question, too, is a waste of time. Once again, the key to unlocking the answer is printed right on your insurance ID card. Immediately skip to that step.

Do not feel ashamed if you found this how-to-article after searching online using one of these branded nicknames cooked up by your state. You have plenty of company.

Why We Are Different

Patient care is our number 1 priority. Our attention to detail and unparalleled customer service creates an experience that will earn your trust and loyalty.

We use the latest technology during our exams, as our goal is to improve quality of life and overall health through education, prevention, and early detection.

Our special collection of eyewear has the finest aesthetics and craftsmanship to have you receiving compliments all day.

Our Purpose

To Help Patients #SeeBetter #FeelBetter #LiveBetter

Featured Services

Read Also: Medicaid Estate Recovery Program Texas