Do Insurance Cover Contacts?

Contacts can be an essential part of our daily lives, allowing us to see clearly without the use of eyeglasses. However, they can be expensive, and many people wonder if their insurance covers the cost of contacts. In this article, we will answer this question and provide you with valuable information about insurance coverage for contacts.

Types of Insurance That Cover Contacts

The coverage for contacts varies depending on the type of insurance policy that you have. Here are three types of insurance that may provide coverage for contacts:

Vision Insurance

Most vision insurance policies cover the cost of contacts. However, you will have to check the terms of your policy to ensure that contacts are covered. Typically, vision insurance plans have a yearly allowance for contact lenses, which can cover the cost of contacts.

Health Insurance

Health insurance policies usually do not cover the cost of contacts. However, if you have a medical condition that requires you to wear contacts, your health insurance may provide coverage. Examples of medical conditions that may necessitate the use of contacts include corneal irregularity, dry eyes, and glaucoma.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)

FSAs and HSAs are types of savings accounts that allow you to set aside pre-tax income to pay for eligible healthcare expenses. Both of these accounts can be used to cover the cost of contacts. However, you will need to check with your plan administrator to ensure that contacts are eligible expenses.

How Much Coverage Can You Expect?

The amount of coverage that you can expect for contacts depends on your insurance policy. Here are some general guidelines:

Vision Insurance

Most vision insurance plans provide coverage for the cost of a yearly supply of contacts. The amount of coverage may vary depending on the type of contacts that you need. For example, specialty contacts, such as toric lenses for astigmatism or multifocal contacts, may have additional costs that are not covered by your insurance plan.

Health Insurance

If your health insurance covers contacts, the amount of coverage will depend on the specifics of your policy. Some policies may cover the entire cost of contacts, while others may only cover a portion of the cost.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)

If you have an FSA or HSA, you can use the funds in your account to pay for the cost of contacts. However, there may be limits to how much you can contribute to the account each year.

FAQ About Insurance Coverage for Contacts

Question
Answer
1. Are contacts covered under Medicare?
No, Medicare typically does not cover the cost of contacts. However, if you have a medical condition that requires you to wear contacts, Medicare may provide coverage.
2. Will my insurance cover colored contacts?
If colored contacts are medically necessary, they may be covered under your insurance policy. However, if they are purely cosmetic, they will not be covered.
3. How often can I get new contacts?
Most insurance policies cover the cost of a yearly supply of contacts. However, you should check your policy to ensure that you are eligible for a new supply each year.
4. Can I use my FSA or HSA to pay for contacts if my insurance doesn’t cover them?
Yes, if you have an FSA or HSA, you can use the funds in your account to pay for the cost of contacts, even if they are not covered by your insurance policy.

Conclusion

If you wear contacts, it’s important to understand your insurance coverage to avoid unexpected costs. If you have vision insurance, the cost of contacts may be covered, but you should check your policy to ensure that they are eligible expenses. If you have a medical condition that requires contacts, your health insurance may provide coverage. Additionally, you can use an FSA or HSA to pay for the cost of contacts. Remember to check with your plan administrator to ensure that contacts are eligible expenses.