Purchasing insight: Understanding reimbursements for intraocular lenses
The reimbursement for this procedure has declined significantly over the years as it has reached its maturity.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, a cataract is a clouding that develops in the crystalline lens of the eye or its lens capsule. It varies in degree from slight to complete opacity, obstructing the passage of light. Cataracts typically progress slowly, causing gradual vision loss and are potentially blinding if left untreated.
Currently, the only method of treatment for cataracts is through the implantation of an intraocular lens (IOL) in the eye. Most IOLs are fixed monofocal lenses set to correct the patient’s vision at near, intermediate or long distance. However, other types are available, such as multifocal IOLs, which provide the patient with multiple-focused vision at far and reading distance. Toric IOLs are another type of monofocal lens with correction for astigmatism built into the lens.
The reimbursement for this procedure has declined significantly over the years as it has reached its maturity. However, there are over 20.5 million Americans 40 years old and older who are affected by cataracts, so a need remains.
With regards to pricing, market share agreements can help drive price negotiations. Standardizing to one vendor can drives prices even lower.
Intraocular Lenses Types
Monofocal IOL
| Low | High | Average |
| $85 | $190 | $133 |
Multifocal IOL
| Low | High | Average |
| $895 | $950 | $898 |
Toric IOL
| Low | High | Average |
| $495 | $495 | $495 |
Data source: MD Buyline (Please note these numbers have been adjusted to exclude special deals, outliers and unique circumstances)
LeAnne Smith is a senior analyst at MD Buyline.
