Understanding Tricare Eye Insurance

Tricare is a health insurance program that provides coverage to the military personnel and their families. Tricare offers different health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Tricare eye insurance is specifically designed to cover the vision needs of the members and their eligible dependents. In this article, we will discuss the details of Tricare eye insurance, how it works, and what it covers.

What is Tricare Eye Insurance?

Tricare eye insurance is a type of insurance that covers eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses for the members and their families. Tricare offers different types of eye insurance plans depending on the member’s status and location.

Active duty members and their families can enroll in Tricare Prime or Tricare Select, which includes vision coverage. Retirees and their families can enroll in Tricare Prime or Tricare Select, and they can also purchase the Retiree Vision Program.

Tricare offers coverage for routine eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. However, there are certain limitations and exclusions that you should be aware of.

Covered Services

The following services are covered under Tricare eye insurance:

Limitations and Exclusions

Tricare eye insurance has certain limitations and exclusions. The following services are not covered:

• Laser eye surgery
• Cosmetic eyewear
• Replacement or repair of lost or damaged eyewear
• Eye exams for the purpose of prescribing eyewear only
• Eye exams performed by an optician or technician

How Does Tricare Eye Insurance Work?

Tricare eye insurance works similarly to other types of insurance. As a member, you must first enroll in Tricare and select the appropriate plan that includes vision coverage. You can then make an appointment with an eye doctor who accepts Tricare.

During your appointment, the eye doctor will perform a routine eye exam and determine if you need eyeglasses or contact lenses. If you need eyeglasses or contact lenses, the eye doctor will provide you with a prescription that you can take to a Tricare-approved eyewear provider.

The eyewear provider will then help you choose the frames and lenses that meet your prescription and Tricare coverage. You will either pay nothing or a small co-payment for the frames and lenses, depending on your Tricare plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Tricare eye insurance to get LASIK surgery?

No, Tricare eye insurance does not cover LASIK surgery. However, Tricare does offer a separate program called the Refractive Surgery Program, which covers LASIK surgery for certain members and their dependents. You can check your eligibility on the Tricare website.

What is the Retiree Vision Program?

The Retiree Vision Program is a vision insurance program offered by Tricare for retirees and their families. The program provides coverage for routine eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. The Retiree Vision Program has its own set of premiums and benefits, and you must enroll separately from your Tricare plan.

What do I do if I lose or damage my eyewear?

Tricare eye insurance does not cover replacement or repair of lost or damaged eyewear. However, you can purchase a new pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses at a Tricare-approved eyewear provider.

Can I go to any eye doctor with Tricare eye insurance?

No, you must go to an eye doctor who accepts Tricare. You can search for Tricare-approved eye doctors on the Tricare website.

What do I do if I need an eye exam outside of my scheduled appointment?

If you need an eye exam outside of your scheduled appointment, you can contact your Tricare provider or call the Tricare Nurse Advice Line. The Tricare Nurse Advice Line is available 24/7 and can help you find a Tricare-approved eye doctor in your area.

Conclusion

Tricare eye insurance provides coverage for routine eye exams, eyeglasses, and contact lenses for the members and their families. Tricare offers different types of eye insurance plans depending on the member’s status and location. While Tricare eye insurance has certain limitations and exclusions, it can be a valuable benefit for the military personnel and their families. If you are a member of Tricare and need vision coverage, be sure to review your options and enroll in the appropriate plan.