Today Tonight segment 14th August Eye test Not quite correct

[beautysecretfashion]

TT ran a segment regarding the new Digital Retna Scan a great new service you can have done when you have your regular eye test check up. The segment said it is covered by Medicare. Just be aware it depends on your Optometrist whether or not you get it for free!

I learnt the hard way, went to OPSM and was charged $60!! Called Medicare and because my Optometrist did not provide an Item# it is not claimable. I made OPSM aware and the area Manager phoned me and said it is a company corporate decision and it is at the discretion of the Optomertrist to charge or not. I said fair enough I will use my consumer discretion and take our family business elsewhere in future - 3 members of my family require glasses - spend over $900 in 2 years with them - no more OPSM.

Sent a message to TT also letting them know they should update the info so other people do not get caught out.

My fault I should have checkede first I suppose but assumed it was covered.  Still worth it, but feel cheated by OPSM.

I phoned a few other local Optometrists in my area just to see what the go is and out five I phoned 2 others offered the test for free they used the Consultation item# which means Medicare pays for the test.

Just thought I would let the ebay community know so if planning to have this wonderful new test to ASK your Optemtrist first.

It was a relief to know I have no signs of any problems, being a type 2 Diabetic it's good news.

I recommend everyone to have the test as it can save your sight literally, it picks up signs of possible strokes, glaucoma, Macular Degeneration & a lot more.

♥

[youcandoityoucandoityoucandoit]

Thanks for the info! That might come in handy in the future.

[polksaladallie]

I had this test a year ago.  It is not new.

[Anonymous]

My hubby and I are booked to have our OTC scan done on Monday. It's not listed on the medicare bulk bill item schedule so it'll cost us $20 per eye.  Well worth the small outlay, but TT should have got their facts straight before going to air. 

[beautysecretfashion]

The test itself may not be new however the machine/scan is, the latest technology from 3 months ago. It is the wide DRS different form the former model which did 45 degrees, the new does 200! Which captures the entire eye.

Happy sight seeing♥

[sandypas]

I had this done six months ago.  Being a type 2 diabetic, I was showing signs of having a touch of retinitis.  This machine shows images of the back of the eye that never was available before - as a result, it wasn't as bad as suspected and my appointments were changed from 6 monthly to annually.  It cost me $60 - the rest of my optical appointments are covered by medicare by the chronic disease scheme.

[purple_haize]

I too have had this test ages ago, I go to a eye specialist every 6 months, as I have glaucoma in my left eye.

Once a yr. I have ultra sounds done on both my eyes and other tests..

My appts. at the specialist are $70.00.

[cherry*135]

Thanks for letting us now about this. I have found similar before with Optometrists (differing charges).. An Optometrist chain that is owned by our health fund sent out flyers saying they would do this test at no cost, whereas others do charge for it.

The machines would be very expensive for Optometrists to buy. A worthwhile test to get done though.

[sandypas]

Yes, that is why I had to pay a fee even though I am covered under the chronic disease scheme - the eye clinic said the machine cost them a huge amount.