Is LASIK Covered by Insurance?

LASIK is generally considered an elective procedure, meaning it’s not deemed medically necessary and is typically not fully covered by insurance. However, many insurance providers offer discount programs or member reward options for corrective eye surgery, which can significantly reduce costs. These discounts are more common with vision-specific insurance plans, rather than general health insurance, and can save patients hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Unlike traditional reimbursements, these discounts are often applied upfront, reducing out-of-pocket costs at the time of surgery.

Although LASIK is a voluntary procedure, there are rare instances where it may be considered medically necessary. For example, if your occupation requires perfect vision or if you have a medical condition such as severe dry eye syndrome, you may be able to argue for partial insurance coverage. However, this is not the norm, and most people will need to pay for much of the procedure themselves.

While full coverage for LASIK is rare, several major insurance providers may offer discounts on the procedure. These discounts often range between $400 and $800 per eye, depending on your plan. Some vision insurance plans may also include perks like free lifetime enhancements, depending on the provider.

If your insurance does not cover LASIK or only covers part of the cost, there are other ways to manage the expense:

1. Financing Plans: Many LASIK providers offer financing options, allowing you to pay for the procedure in monthly installments. Some even offer low-interest or zero-interest payment plans for qualified patients.
2. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA): Both FSAs and HSAs allow you to set aside pre-tax income for medical expenses, including LASIK. These accounts are a great way to reduce the overall cost by using pre-tax dollars.
3. Personal Savings Strategies: You can also explore creative ways to save for LASIK such as setting up a dedicated savings fund, requesting monetary contributions from friends or family for special occasions or taking advantage of special promotions or discounts offered by reputable, board-certified LASIK surgeons.

If you’re considering LASIK, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand what discounts or coverage options are available to you. Additionally, you may want to consult your employer’s human resource department for more information on benefits like FSAs or HSAs that can help offset costs.
For more information about the LASIK procedure, the insurance plans accepted or to schedule a consultation to determine if you’re a good candidate, please contact Atwal Eye at 716-892-2020 or visit WEBSITE.