Before you sign up for Lasik, be sure to check with your insurance company, especially if you have vision insurance. Most insurance companies consider Lasik to be a cosmetic or elective procedure. This typically means that they are not willing to pay for the procedure. In some instances, an employer will make special arrangements with Lasik centers for their patients. These arrangements often result in a special or reduced price for the procedure.
Other companies may offer expanded vision insurance programs. These expanded programs provide more than glasses and contacts, but Lasik as well. Expanded plans may not necessarily pay for the whole procedure, but for a part of it. This will make the surgery much more affordable if you seek it. Even if you do have an expanded plan, be sure to check with your insurance company before having the procedure done.
When you are considering having a Lasik procedure done, be certain to look at the various options in your community. Some advertisements have told people that Lasik can be performed for as low as $500 per eye, but this is typically for people who have low vision problems. If you have a higher prescription, your procedure is likely to cost much more. The average procedure ranges around $2,000. It may also cost more than this. It is also important to remember that a less experienced surgeon may charge less for his services. It is important not to choose a doctor based solely on the cost of the procedure. The surgeon may not necessarily have the latest technology, which could mean more pain for you.
Different countries also have different regulations on whether or not insurance will cover this surgery. For example, Africa, Latin America, Europe and Asia will cover Lasik through insurance, even if it is considered elective. Insurance companies in the United States and Canada so not cover the costs associated with the procedure.
Another option to pay for your procedure is through a flexible spending account. Many employers are offering these accounts as benefits for their employees. The money that is saved through the account can be used for medical procedures that are not covered by insurance plans. If you save enough money in the account, the cost of the procedure may be completely covered. If you do not have enough in the account, it can still be used to cover part of the procedure. If you are using your flexible spending account, you will have to alert the provider. There may be instances where you are able to pay for the procedure by having your surgery deducted from your federal income tax return. Before you decide to have the procedure, discuss this option with your accountant.
It is important to realize that most patients are financially responsible for their surgery. The surgery can be costly, but there are various ways that you can defray the cost. Tell your Lasik surgeon what you can do and they may be able to finance the remainder of the procedure.