Many hospitals have doctor referral services and can tell you which doctors will accept Medicare patients. If you are 65 or older, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and you do not have access to an ophthalmologist that you have seen in the past, you may be eligible for the National Eye Care Project. Callers who meet the eligibility requirements are mailed the name of a participating ophthalmologist near their home. Participating doctors provide medical eye exams and treatment for conditions or diseases if necessary. Eyeglasses, prescriptions, hospital services, and other medical services are not covered under the program.
Doctors accept insurance assignment as payment in full.
It is the responsibility of the agency on aging in your state to act as a referral agency for older citizens. There is also a state rehabilitation agency for the blind in your state which should be able to give you information. There may be other state or local services for which you may be eligible. The most important thing for you to remember is that you have a lifetime of experience to offer your family, friends, and the rest of the world. Just because you have lost your vision, does not mean that you don't still have a lot to offer to other people.