As the year draws to a close, it's time to wrap up essential tasks—and using your remaining vision benefits and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) should be at the top of your list. Many of these benefits follow a "use it or lose it" policy, meaning any unused funds will expire at year’s end.
Here’s why maximizing your benefits at Natick Eye Associates is a smart choice and how regular eye care can support your overall health.
Why Using Your Benefits Matters
Most vision insurance plans reset on January 1. This means any unused benefits from 2024 won’t carry over into 2025. The same applies for FSA funds, which are also subject to expiration if not used by December 31.
Although health savings accounts (HSA) are more flexible and roll over into the next year, they still offer an opportunity to benefit from eye care using tax-free funds.
Essential Eye Care Services Covered by Vision Benefits
Vision insurance plans cover a range of services that support eye health and clear vision.
Here's how you can use your remaining benefits:
- Comprehensive Eye Exams: Regular visits to an eye doctor are essential for detecting and treating eye conditions in their early stages. Even if your vision seems fine, an eye exam can uncover problems that may not be immediately noticeable.
- Prescription Glasses: If you’ve been thinking of getting a new pair of glasses, now’s the ideal time. Most vision plans offer allowances for frames and lenses each year, allowing you to explore stylish designer eyewear, prescription sunglasses, specialty lenses and more.
- Contact Lenses: If you prefer contacts over glasses, our optometrists can help you leverage your vision insurance, so you don't come out of pocket. We'll help you order supplies before December 31, ensuring you’re set for the coming months.
Maximize FSA and HSA Funds on Vision Care
FSA and HSA funds cover a wide range of eye care expenses. These funds can be used on:
- Eye Exams: Regular eye exams qualify for FSA/HSA spending, so you can use these funds to prioritize your eye health.
- Prescription Eyewear: Prescription glasses and contact lenses, including cleaning solutions and lens coatings, are eligible for FSA/HSA funds.
- Treatments for Eye Conditions: Using your funds, you can manage common eye conditions such as dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. This can include medications, advanced eye drops, and other medically necessary treatments.
- LASIK and Vision Correction Surgery: Corrective procedures like LASIK are typically covered by HSA and FSA funds, allowing you to reduce dependence on glasses or contacts.
By using your FSA or HSA on these essential items, you ensure that no funds go to waste and that your eye care needs are fully met before the year’s end.
The Importance of Regular Eye Care
Regular eye care is essential for maintaining clear vision and supporting overall health. By seeing an eye doctor consistently, you allow them to track any changes in your prescription, screen for eye diseases, and even detect signs of health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
If you haven't had an eye exam this year, using your vision benefits and FSA/HSA funds can ensure that you prioritize your overall health while minimizing out-of-pocket costs.
Use Your Vision Benefits and Funds at Natick Eye Associates
With only a few weeks left in the year, it’s time to schedule an appointment and take full advantage of your remaining benefits. Schedule an eye exam or make a purchase before December 31 at our eye clinic in Natick.