LASUK eye surgery is a popular and widely accepted procedure for improving vision. But is there such a thing as LASIK eye surgery insurance coverage? The answer is that LASIK surgery is not eligible for reimbursement under Medicare or private health insurance as it is deemed an elective procedure and, therefore, medically unnecessary.
Certain vision insurance policies can assist in covering the cost of laser eye surgery, though they may only apply to specific circumstances. Most insurance companies don’t cover LASIK, so you’ll be paying out-of-pocket. Therefore, let’s glance at what it costs to get LASIK as well as some sources for financial aid with your out-of-pocket expenditure.
How Much Does LASIK Cost?
The cost of LASIK eye surgery varies drastically; it can be $1,000 or reach up to $4,000 per eye. On average, the price in 2020 in America was $2,632 for each eye, according to Clinical Ophthalmology’s 2021 report. It is worth noting that advertisements claiming a much lower cost, such as $250, are generally for minimal corrections and are used merely to lure patients into inquiring further about the procedure.
There are some factors that can directly affect the cost of the surgery:
Location: The geographical location of the clinic where you receive your LASIK eye surgery can also increase or decrease the cost dramatically.
Technology: The technology used in the surgery also affects the cost. Some newer methods, such as wavefront LASIK, may be more expensive than older ones.
Financing options: Several financing options can help you pay for LASIK eye surgery since most health insurance policies do not cover the procedure. At Eye Care Professionals, we accept all major credit cards, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), and other medical loan options like Care Credit.
Doctor expertise: Your LASIK surgeon’s experience level and reputation can also impact the cost of your surgery.
If they possess the laser equipment: It may cost more if the LASIK provider does not own the equipment needed for your surgery and has to rent it from another source. Eye Care Professionals partners with Visionary Surgery Center of Nevada which gives our patients direct access to the premiere, state-of-the-art eye surgery center in northern Nevada.
Regarding the surgery cost, you don’t have to worry about how severe your eye vision is. LASIK’s fixed cost already covers minor or highly corrected nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism within its secure treatment range.
How to Pay For LASIK Without Insurance?
Fortunately, you have several alternatives when managing the cost of LASIK. Check out these methods:
1. Credit Cards
For those who prefer to use credit cards with rewards or miles, a no or low-interest card is an excellent way to cover the expense of surgery while reaping additional benefits such as travel points and more.
2. Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
For the 2022 tax year, employers can allow employees to set aside tax-deferred money that can be used later for procedures like LASIK through an FSA or HSA. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), individuals can contribute up to $3,650 in a health savings account, and families have the potential to contribute up to $7,300 collectively. The IRS additionally limits pre-tax contributions for FSAs this upcoming year at $2,850 total.
3. Personal Savings
While it may be tricky to determine the most suitable way to pay for your LASIK eye surgery, one of the most straightforward options is using cash you already have. By doing so, you will not experience any debt following your treatment. If there are not enough funds in savings, then a partial payment with cash could be an option.
4. Care Credit
CareCredit is different from a regular credit card. Patients can use it to pay for out-of-pocket expenses not covered by medical insurance, and special financing options are available that you may not be able to get with other cards.
Premier LASIK Providers in Northern Nevada
Although your health insurance does not always cover the cost of LASIK eye surgery, plenty of options are available to finance this expensive procedure. From financing plans and flexible spending arrangements to personal savings, you have various choices when paying for LASIK without insurance coverage.
At Eye Care Professionals, we specialize in providing LASIK surgery and other vision correction procedures. Our highly experienced ophthalmologists remain at the forefront of the field and are dedicated to protecting and preserving our patients’ vision, eye health, and quality of life.
We offer complete eye care in Northern Nevada. Contact us today!
