Medicaid Eye Exams in North Carolina: Complete Guide for Kids and Adults

Are you looking for an eye doctor that accepts Medicaid in Charlotte or Asheville, NC?

Look no further! At Reflect Vision Care, our eye doctors proudly accept NC Medicaid. We also participate with Medicaid-managed care plans such as Alliance Health, Carolina Complete, Healthy Blue, March Vision (UHC), Partners Health, Trillium, Vaya Health, and Wellcare.

Important: Please bring an active (non-expired) Medicaid card to your exam.

NC Medicaid Coverage for Children (Ages 20 and Younger)

Children and young adults covered by NC Medicaid or NC Health Choice are eligible for:

• One routine eye exam and glasses every year.

• Coverage of medical eye visits (pink eye, allergies, dry eye, etc.) under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit.

This ensures children get the eye care they need to see clearly and stay healthy.

NC Medicaid Coverage for Adults (Age 21 and Older)

Adults with NC Medicaid are eligible for:

• One routine eye exam and glasses every two years.

• Coverage of medical eye exams for conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, eye infections, headaches, and more.

This expansion, in place since 2019, provides affordable access to essential vision care for adults across North Carolina.

What About Broken Glasses?

If your glasses break before you are eligible for a new pair, NC Medicaid may help.

• Broken frames or lenses can be replaced with prior approval.

• Single-lens replacement is available if only one lens is damaged.

• Prescription changes may also qualify for coverage.

Does NC Medicaid Cover Contact Lenses?

Yes, but only when medically necessary.

• Covered: Medically necessary contact lenses with prior approval.

• Not covered: Cosmetic or elective contact lenses.

At Reflect Vision Care, we also offer affordable options for contact lens evaluations and materials if you want contacts for convenience or lifestyle reasons.

Does NC Medicaid Cover LASIK?

No. NC Medicaid does not cover LASIK or other elective vision correction procedures, as these are considered cosmetic.

Can Eye Exams Be Done Through Telehealth?

No. NC Medicaid does not cover eye exams or glasses through telehealth. Exams and dispensing must be performed in person at a Medicaid-participating office.

Quick Reference Table: Medicaid Eye Exams in North Carolina

Category	Coverage Details
Children (0–20 yrs)	1 exam + glasses per year; medical visits covered under EPSDT
Adults (21+ yrs)	1 exam + glasses every two years; medical visits covered
Broken Glasses	Frames/lenses can be replaced with prior approval
Contact Lenses	Covered if medically necessary; cosmetic lenses not covered
LASIK Surgery	Not covered
Telehealth Services	Exams and glasses must be in-person

Schedule Your Visit

If you or your child have NC Medicaid, our team at Reflect Vision Care is here to help.

📍 Charlotte (Northlake Mall)

📍 Concord (Concord Mills)

📍 Asheville (Biltmore Park and Asheville Mall)

Ready to schedule an appointment? Call us today or book online!