According to the CDC, 8.3% of adults failed to obtain needed medical care in the U.S. due to cost. Perhaps that seems like a small percentage, but as compassionate healthcare providers…we want to see that at 0%.
It’s our hope that anyone who would benefit from medical intervention has the ability and means to get the help they need. Part of our job as doctors and health advocates is to not only provide diagnosis and treatment…but also education. That includes providing information regarding how you can help pay for the medical assistance you need to live a healthy life.
Health insurance can be complicated. And many people may not even know the vast benefits available to them through their public or private insurance. We’re often asked, “Is my visit to the eye doctor or my eye surgery covered under my health insurance?” The answer can be complicated, but it boils down to this: it depends on your insurance.
Your medical coverage through your health insurance may help cover the cost of diagnosis and treatment. Medical eye problems and diseases, such cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye, retinal issues, or corneal injuries often are covered under health insurance policies.
Choosing an eye care provider that accepts your insurance also impacts your coverage. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor and specialist in diagnosing and treating eye disorders and diseases—their services are typically covered as such with medical insurance plans.
There are also supplemental vision plans that may be available to you through your employer. This can be used to help reduce vision-related expenses like contacts and glasses. But be sure to check with your provider to see if they accept vision insurance as this is often treated differently than standard medical health insurance.
To see if your insurance carrier and plan is accepted, find the ReFocus practice that’s closest to you. Also, if you’re in need of services not covered by insurance, many of our locations offer financing options to help cover the cost of eye care. You may also be able to use your flexible spending account (FSA)/health savings account (HSA) to help with costs not covered by insurance. Learn more about these special, tax-advantaged accounts here.
Insurance plans can be confusing. Your ReFocus Eye Health care team will happily work with your insurance on your behalf to understand your unique coverage for eye care services.