Are Contacts Covered by Insurance?

Contacts can be expensive, especially if you have to buy them on a regular basis. If you’re wondering whether your insurance will cover the cost of contacts, the answer is: it depends. Some insurances will cover the cost of contacts, while others won’t. In this article, we will explore the topic of whether contacts are covered by insurance in greater detail.

Types of Insurance That Cover Contacts

There are two main types of insurance that cover contacts: vision insurance and medical insurance. While vision insurance is designed specifically for eye care, medical insurance can also cover eye-related issues. Let’s take a closer look at each type of insurance.

Vision Insurance

Vision insurance is a type of insurance that covers routine eye care, including contacts. If you have vision insurance, you will typically pay a monthly premium and have a certain amount of coverage for contacts every year. Your plan may cover a portion or all the cost of the contacts, depending on the plan.

Some vision insurance plans also offer discounts on contacts, which can be helpful if you need to buy them on a regular basis.

Medical Insurance

Medical insurance can also cover the cost of contacts if they are deemed medically necessary. For example, if you have an eye condition that requires you to wear contacts, your medical insurance may cover the cost. However, you will need to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered under your plan.

FAQs about Contacts and Insurance

Here are some frequently asked questions about contacts and insurance:

Question
Answer
Are contacts considered a medical device?
Yes, contacts are considered a medical device because they come into contact with your eyes.
Can I use my FSA or HSA to pay for contacts?
Yes, you can use your FSA or HSA to pay for contacts. However, you will need to check with your provider to see what is covered under your plan.
How often do I need to replace my contacts?
The lifespan of contacts varies depending on the type of contacts you wear. Daily disposables should be replaced daily, while monthly disposables should be replaced every month. Your eye doctor can give you more information about how often you should replace your contacts.
Do I need a prescription for contacts?
Yes, you need a prescription for contacts. Even if you have perfect vision, you will still need a prescription from an eye doctor to buy contacts.

How to Find out if Your Insurance Covers Contacts

If you’re not sure whether your insurance covers the cost of contacts, here are some steps you can take:

  1. Check your insurance policy: Look through your insurance policy to see if contacts are covered.
  2. Contact your insurance provider: Call your insurance provider and ask whether contacts are covered under your plan.
  3. Visit an eye doctor: If you’re due for an eye exam, visit an eye doctor and ask about your insurance coverage for contacts.

Conclusion

Contacts can be a significant expense, but they can also be a necessity for those with vision issues. If you’re wondering whether your insurance covers the cost of contacts, it’s important to check with your provider. Some insurances will cover the cost of contacts, while others won’t. The best way to know for sure is to do your research and ask questions.