The sticker price of LASIK eye surgery can cause some people to go owl-eyed at first glance, but there are options to help cover the costs and propel you into a world of clear vision.
Most people first look to their insurance provider when considering LASIK eye surgery. However, most insurance companies consider LASIK to be an elective or cosmetic surgery and will not cover the cost. Despite this, it is still worth it to check with your insurance provider, because some of the larger companies will negotiate with LASIK providers to offer members a courtesy discount. Additionally, there are people with select qualities such as job-based need or medical conditions who may qualify for insurance coverage.
Breaking the remaining price into monthly payments can make LASIK a reasonable financial option. Credit providers offer a range of plans from three months to five years. While interest rates vary for long-term payments, some short-term payment plans charge no interest. Select companies will even allow you to spread the payments out over time with no extra cost. Before deciding on a plan, be sure that the LASIK surgeon you select approves the financing company. You may consider asking for a list of approved financing companies from your surgeon before you apply for a loan. Illinois Eye Center offers the CareCredit card, which allows you to begin your procedure immediately with no up front costs or pre-payment penalties. CareCredit also allows you to make low monthly payments so you don’t have to wait to improve your vision.
There’s no need to stress about applying for credit from a LASIK financing company; it’s quick, easy and similar to obtaining traditional loans. You will be required to fill out paper work and you may be able to obtain the forms from your surgeon or from the financing company’s website. The forms will most likely ask for your full name, permanent address, social security and telephone numbers, household income, and possibly your driver’s license number. Before you reveal any of your personal information, be sure to check that the company financing your loan is legitimate. If applying online, check that the URL in the address bar begins with https instead of http. This indicates that you are on a secure server.
You may also consider financing your LASIK procedure through a flexible spending account (FSA), a tax-free way to save for LASIK. An FSA allows you to use pre-tax income for medical related costs. You can create this tax-free LASIK financing program by saving part of your salary each month in a tax-free flexible spending account. Once you are ready for the procedure, you can use the money saved in the account. This option is only available through employer-sponsored vision benefits and flexible spending accounts.
However you decide to pay for LASIK, you can feel confident knowing that you’ve made an investment into the future of your vision. Learn more about the CareCredit card by visiting our website today or contact our office at (309) 243-2400.