Have you been experiencing vision problems, but haven’t visited your eye doctor because you do not have vision insurance? Your symptoms may turn out to be caused by a problem that is medical in nature – meaning your medical insurance would cover your eye doctor visit. The difference between vision insurance and medical insurance is one of the most common misconceptions when it comes to eye care.
Vision Insurance:
Covers routine eye checkups and the cost of calculating your prescription. Your vision plan may provide discounts or allowances towards eyeglass frames, lenses or contacts. Vision insurance is usually chosen by an employer and prefers certain providers.
Routine eye exams can care for astigmatism, nearsightedness or farsightedness. As part of this exam, your doctor also checks for many conditions and diseases, including:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Dry Eyes
- Retinal Holes or Tears
- Diabetic or Hypertensive Eye Diseases
If your routine well-eye exam exposes a medical condition or disease related to your eye, then your medical insurance can be used.
Medical Insurance:
Covers a range of eye-related medical problems, including:
- Itchy, dry eyes
- Eye pain
- Discharge
- Headaches
- Cataracts
- Complications from diabetes or high blood pressure
Vision insurance is not needed to be covered for a medical condition.
What you need to know:
Most eye care practices are very knowledgeable about a variety of insurance plans, however it’s not your doctor’s responsibility to know the details of your individual plan. Make sure you are aware of possible deductibles and co-pays associated with your type of plan. If you aren’t sure of what your insurance covers, please give Illinois Eye Center a call at (309) 243-2400. We’d be happy to help you get access to the eye care you deserve!