How Optometrists Join Medicare as an Independent Contractor 1099

Joining Medicare as an optometrist can be one of the most arduous processes new grads will experience; however, it is essential if you wish to submit claims and receive reimbursement for providing care to Medicare patients. This article serves as a guide for those new grads who will be working as Independent Contractors (1099) and submitting claims under themselves and not through another party or under another name or practice (re-assigning benefits).

For example, I work as an independent contractor and provide care to patients at several locations. As an independent contractor, I can personally bill Medicare and receive reimbursements directly from Medicare in the form of an electronic funds transfer.