Optometric parity legislation under Medicare

On April 1, 1987, optometrists became eligible for reimbursement under Medicare for the services optometrists are authorized to provide under the laws of the state in which this service is performed. The optometric parity language did not expand or change the current coverage and reimbursement rules, but rather expanded which providers could be reimbursed under Medicare. For the service to be covered by Medicare, the service must be one which is currently covered by Medicare if furnished by a doctor of medicine or osteopathy, and must be within the services the optometrist is authorized to perform under the licensure laws of the state in which the service is performed. Optometric parity was included as part of the Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1986, which was signed by President Reagan on October 21, 1986.