Vision insurance is often seen as a safety net for our eyes, but paying monthly premiums doesn’t always mean you’re getting value for your money. Mitigating the hidden costs is key to ensuring that you have affordable eye care.
Let’s shed some light on the less obvious expenses associated with vision insurance and how to navigate around them.
Be Aware of Copays and Deductibles
A copay is a fixed amount you pay for a covered service, and a deductible is the amount you pay before your insurance kicks in. Be aware that even after meeting your deductible, copays can add up, especially if you require multiple services or treatments.
If you require services that aren’t covered by your insurance, you’re in for an unpleasant surprise when the bill arrives.
Watch for Upcharges and Add-ons
Vision care often involves upcharges for necessary add-ons. Things like lens coatings, tints, and upgraded lens materials can significantly increase the final cost—expenses that are often not fully covered by insurance.
While some lens enhancements are optional, others, like scratch-resistant or anti-reflective coatings, are essential for durability and comfort. Before you commit to these extras, find out what your insurance will cover and what will come out of your pocket.
Understand Frame and Lens Options
The frames and lenses covered by your insurance may not meet your needs for quality or style. If you have specific requirements, like lightweight materials or progressive lenses, you may find that your insurance covers only a basic option. This means you’ll pay the difference for anything above the allowance, which can be substantial, especially for designer frames or specialized lenses.
Weigh Your Premium vs Your Benefits
Keep track of the amount you’re spending on your copays and eyewear. Calculate the annual cost of your premiums and compare it to what you actually spend on vision care each year. If you’re paying more for insurance than you would out of pocket for an eye exam and a new pair of glasses, it might be time to reassess.
Explore Your Options
There are a number of ways to mitigate the hidden costs of vision insurance. Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts allow you to cover out-of-pocket expenses with pre-tax dollars. Vision discount plans offer affordable eye care in exchange for an annual fee, and independent eye care providers offer competitive pricing outside of insurance networks.
See More Savings and Less Sticker Shock
Complete Eye Care of Medina provides comprehensive vision care in the Twin Cities West Metro Area. Our 20/20 Club is a membership program that covers eye exams, refraction, screening and more while providing competitive discounts on frames and lenses.
For a low annual fee, and no hidden costs, the 20/20 Club is an alternative to vision insurance that will help the whole family see clearer. Reach out today to learn more and see if the 20/20 Club is right for you.