Vision Insurance Benefits Expire at Year’s End – Use Them or Lose Them!
Many vision benefits and flexible spending accounts (FSA) offer benefits that expire at the end of every year. If you do not use them, you’ll lose them! In most cases, unused benefits cannot be transferred over to the New Year, typically beginning on January 1st. This is your hard-earned dollars! Don’t let them get wasted.
Most insurance plans entitle you to a comprehensive eye examination and either a pair of quality eyeglasses or an allowance that goes towards contact lenses each year. Have you taken advantage of these basic benefits this year? If you are not sure of the date of your last appointment at Vision Health Institute, call us at 407-893-6222, and we can look it up for you.
Did you know? Some insurance plans cover multiple pairs of glasses – even non-prescription sunglasses once you’ve had Lasik surgery!
Vision insurance plans vary in their coverage, and we accept a host of plans. Our staff is knowledgeable and trained to decipher what insurance benefits your plan includes. Co-pays or allowances cover different services and products. Maximize your healthcare by understanding the benefits that are available to you and use those benefits. In general, most plans will cover the following with a co-pay or an allowance:
• Comprehensive eye exam
• Frames
• Standard plastic lenses
Contact lens exams and contacts are usually considered electives, however, some insurance plans cover them completely. Some do not cover contact lenses at all. It is very important to know your coverage before you begin shopping.
Lens coatings, upgrades and add-ons, such as polycarbonate lenses, anti-glare, transitions and tint are almost always considered electives, so coverage will vary among insurance plans. We are pleased that a number of insurance companies are realizing the benefits these upgrades can offer and are beginning to make allowances for them. It makes our patient’s experience with vision health so much better!
Other Ways to Use Your Benefits
If you’ve had an exam this year and a new prescription filled, yet still have money remaining in your FSA, why not stock up on accessories? Cleaning products, microfiber cloths, sprays and specialized towelettes are great items to purchase, and we have a great selection at Vision Health Institute. You should also consider purchasing sun wear for the holidays and an annual supply of contact lenses! These make perfect gifts for yourself!
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Visit our office on December 19 & 20 for a special promotion!
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If your plan allows it, why not get that back-up pair of glasses? If you have “multiple pair benefits,” use them in conjunction with your FSA allowing you to get a second pair of glasses or prescription sunglasses! You could very well end up with a cheap pair of glasses! Get creative (and get shopping) – use those benefits that are about to expire.
The end of the year is always a busy time. Family visits, kids home from college or out of school, special performances and holiday parties to attend – it is easy to forget something like vision benefits expiring! Avoid the rush and adding more frenzy, call NOW and schedule your appointment. While you are out shopping in Orlando, stop by VHI located south of Colonial Drive on the corner of Bumby Avenue and East Livingston Street. Use those benefits; don’t lose them!