Open enrollment season is the perfect time to review your health and vision insurance benefits and make sure your plan covers the care you and your family need. At Illinois Eye Center, we want to help you feel confident in making the right choices so you don’t encounter surprises when it comes to your eye care. Here are five important tips to keep in mind as you review your options.
1 Know the Difference Between Vision and Medical Coverage
Vision insurance typically covers vision exams and eyewear, while medical insurance covers monitoring and treatment of eye diseases, surgeries, and other health-related eye conditions. Many patients use both types of coverage depending on the reason for their visit. To learn more, check out our blog on this topic here: Vision Care vs. Medical Insurance: Understanding the Difference.
2 Verify Network Coverage
The first step is ensuring that Illinois Eye Center is included as an in-network provider under your plan. Out-of-network care can mean significantly higher out-of-pocket costs, so double-check your insurance provider’s directory or call your insurance company to confirm that IEC is listed.
3 Review Vision Benefits for Glasses and Contacts
Many insurance plans include separate benefits for glasses and contact lenses, but coverage can vary widely. Some plans cover one or the other, while others may cover both. Look closely at how often you can use your benefit (annually, every two years, etc.), and whether it includes extras like lenses with anti-reflective coatings or specialty contact lenses.
4 Understand Your Deductible and Out-of-Pocket Costs
If you are being seen regularly for a medical condition such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic eye disease, or if you anticipate needing eye surgery, it’s especially important to review your deductible and out-of-pocket maximums. Knowing these numbers ahead of time can help you budget and avoid unexpected costs.
5 Confirm Surgical Facility Coverage
When or if surgery is needed, our ophthalmologists operate at Carle Health Proctor, Carle Health Pekin, and the OSF Center for Health Ambulatory Surgery Center. During open enrollment, make sure your plan includes one or more of these facilities in-network. This step ensures that both your surgeon and the facility costs will be covered appropriately.
Don’t Wait
Waiting until you need care to discover your plan doesn’t include your doctor or surgery center can lead to stress and higher costs. Open enrollment is your chance to review your options and make sure you’re covered for the full spectrum of eye care needs, from vision exams to complex medical treatments.
If you have questions about your coverage or want guidance as you review your plan, the team at Illinois Eye Center is here to help. Give us a call at 309-243-2400 and we’ll be happy to walk you through your options.