Get the Most Benefit from Vision Insurance

If you have vision insurance for eye care needs, there are certain things you can do to ensure you are getting the maximum benefit from your coverage. By maximizing benefits on items covered under your vision insurance plan, you can save money and be a savvy consumer.

Some vision plans only offer a percentage off of an eye exam from a limited pool of participating eye doctors, or give discounts for eyeglasses or contacts. Other plans cover up to a certain dollar amount for an eye examination and eyeglass frames and lenses and contact lenses. The amount covered could vary depending on whether you go to an in-network doctor or out-of-network doctor.

Here are a few things to consider and understand about your coverage, such as picking an eye care provider for prescription glasses, frames, and contact lenses.

Understanding what your insurance covers is vital. Typically, they cover a percentage of the office visit and any fitting fees. They also cover up to a maximum dollar amount for eyeglasses (frames and lenses) or contact lenses. Added extra such as high index progressive lenses, anti-glare, scratch protection, and transition lenses will have a maximum allowable dollar amount. If you do not know or understand the dollar amount limits on your coverage, there should be an 800 customer service number or website where you can get information.

Know which eye care providers are in your network. Going to an eye doctor out of network will cost more out of pocket than if you go to an in network doctor.

Once you understand your benefits coverage limits and find an eye doctor who participates in your plan, call them and ask questions. Knowing the out of pocket costs can save you money. Scan your plan coverage and have the coverage limits in front of you when you call. Ask if they have eyeglass frames in the price range allowed under your benefits. Ask what they charge for an exam, both an eyeglass exam and contact lens exam. If you have a high index prescription and want contacts, you will most likely need bifocal or toric lenses and the exam and fitting fees could be much higher than for a standard contact lens fitting. Ask what they charge for add-ons such as anti-glare, scratch protection, and transition lenses.

Compare the doctor's charges to what your insurance covers and then shop around and do price comparisons. Call several doctors and compare prices on everything before deciding on which doctor to see.

Be informed and be your own patient advocate to get the maximum benefit for your money and from your vision insurance.