When it comes to healthcare, many people prioritize maintaining good vision, and this often involves investing in vision insurance. While vision insurance can cover various aspects of eye care, such as routine exams, glasses, and contact lenses, there’s one common procedure that is typically not covered: LASIK surgery.
LASIK, which stands for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is a surgical procedure that uses a laser to reshape the cornea and improve vision. It’s a popular procedure, with over 700,000 LASIK surgeries performed in the United States every year. However, despite its popularity, most vision insurance plans do not cover LASIK surgery.
So why isn’t LASIK covered by vision insurance? There are a few reasons. Firstly, LASIK is an elective procedure, meaning it’s not medically necessary. This is because glasses, contact lenses, and other corrective measures can provide adequate vision correction. As such, insurance providers often consider LASIK to be a cosmetic procedure rather than a medical one.
Secondly, LASIK can be expensive, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per eye. Insurance providers may see it as an unnecessary expense, particularly if there are more affordable alternatives for vision correction. Additionally, LASIK can be risky, with potential complications such as dry eye, glare, and vision loss. Insurance providers may not want to assume the financial risk associated with covering a procedure that has such potential for complications.
It’s worth noting that some vision insurance plans may offer discounts on LASIK surgery through their network providers. However, these discounts are often modest and may not significantly offset the cost of the procedure. Additionally, these plans may have strict requirements for eligibility, such as a minimum refractive error, age, or a history of unsuccessful vision correction with glasses or contact lenses.
In summary, while vision insurance can cover a range of eye care services, LASIK surgery is typically not one of them. The procedure is considered elective, expensive, and risky, making it an unlikely candidate for coverage by most insurance providers. However, individuals who are interested in LASIK should consult with their insurance provider and surgeon to discuss their options and any available discounts.
