Medicare Reimbursement Cuts Drive Shift to Pricier Laser Cataract Surgery

Medicare has reduced payments for standard cataract surgery, prompting some ophthalmologists to market laser-assisted procedures that require patients to pay extra out-of-pocket. Even though traditional scalpel surgery is often sufficient, many patients opt for the laser to achieve better vision outcomes. This trend illustrates how reimbursement policy can shape clinical practice and patient costs.