Medicare AdvantageCoverageMedium impact
Therapeutic Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI · Ophthalmology·Physician / Facility
Effective date
Apr 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BCBSRI is adding two new IOL surgery CPT codes (66989 and 66991) to the list of qualifying procedures for post-cataract eyewear coverage, but only for Medicare Advantage Plans. Post-cataract eyeglasses and contact lenses remain covered when patients have undergone qualifying IOL surgery within the previous 9 months.
Action Required
Before April 1, 2026: Billing team must update system to recognize CPT codes 66989 and 66991 as qualifying procedures for post-cataract eyewear coverage for Medicare Advantage members only. Update documentation requirements to verify qualifying IOL surgery occurred within previous 9 months when billing for therapeutic eyeglasses or contact lenses.