Many health insurance companies consider LASIK an elective procedure. Elective procedures are typically procedures that are optional, nice to have done, but not medically necessary.
While LASIK is often considered an elective procedure, there are times when it may be medically necessary. These include:
- Surgery to correct vision problems caused by an injury.
- LASIK for patients that can’t wear glasses or contacts.
- LASIK to correct vision problems caused by surgery.
- LASIK to correct very severe vision problems (the definition of very severe varies from insurance company to insurance company).
It’s important to talk with your doctor to determine if your LASIK surgery will be considered cosmetic or medically necessary.
Affordable Options for LASIK
There are many ways to afford LASIK. Many people finance their procedures, making monthly payments over time until the procedure is paid in full. In addition, some choose to put the balance on a rewards-bearing credit card for points, miles or other incentives.
Many U.S. employees have an FSA, HSA or HRA to cover health expenses with income-tax-free accounts. The cost of laser eye surgery is an eligible expense for all these accounts. In addition, some people may deduct the cost of major medical expenses. Check with your tax preparer to see if you qualify. If you know you want LASIK but are concerned about up-front cost, assess your contributions during your employer’s open-enrollment window and consider increasing your savings so you can afford the procedure next year.
If you have any type of health insurance policy, contact your benefits coordinator to find out exactly what is and is not covered. You can ask your company questions regarding the amount of coverage offered, what procedures may be covered and how much you will have to pay whether you use an in-network or out-of-network healthcare provider.
The value or LASIK is life changing for some. The money saved on costs associated with reducing the need for glasses and contacts reflects only part of the surgery’s value though. Many find that after LASIK they can do many things that they could not have done before, improving their quality of life. It’s important to weigh not just the cost of LASIK, but the overall gains you may experience.
For more information about how to afford the LASIK procedure in San Clemente, contact Harvard Eye Associates at 949-951-2020 or harvardeye.com.
