As the end of the year approaches, it is a good time to check your vision benefits. Many vision plans renew on January 1, which means any unused benefits for eye exams, glasses, contact lenses, or lens upgrades may not carry over into the new year.

We can help you make the most of your coverage before your plan resets. Whether you have noticed a change in your vision or simply need to update your eyewear, scheduling now can help you avoid losing benefits you have already paid for.

What vision benefits may reset at the end of the year?

Every plan is different, but many vision plans include benefits that reset annually. Depending on your coverage, you may have access to:

• An annual comprehensive eye exam
• An allowance toward eyeglasses or prescription sunglasses
• Coverage for contact lens fittings or an annual supply of contacts
• Savings on lens enhancements, such as anti-reflective coating or progressive lenses

If you have already had an eye exam this year, you may still have an eyewear allowance available. If you have not used your exam benefit, year-end is an ideal time to schedule and make sure your prescription and eye health are up to date.

Vision benefits and medical insurance are not the same

It is important to know whether your visit will be billed through a vision plan or medical insurance. Vision plans generally help reduce out-of-pocket costs for routine eye exams, eyewear, and other vision-related services. Medical insurance may apply when your visit involves an eye injury, disease, or medical condition, such as glaucoma or cataracts.

We accept a variety of vision and medical plans, including EyeMed and Premier Eye Care, along with many medical insurance providers. EyeMed benefits may also appear under Aetna Vision or Blue View Vision.

Make time for your eye health and eyewear

Using your remaining benefits is not just about getting new glasses. A routine eye exam helps your eye doctor monitor your vision and check for early signs of eye health concerns that may not cause noticeable symptoms right away.

If it has been a while since your last exam, consider scheduling before the year-end rush. You can also use the visit as an opportunity to:

• Update an outdated glasses prescription
• Explore new eyewear or prescription sunglasses
• Review contact lens options
• Discuss dry eye symptoms, eye strain, or changes in vision

Use your benefits before the calendar changes

Benefits may not roll over, and appointment availability can become more limited as the end of the year gets closer. Take a moment to review your plan, confirm your available benefits, and schedule the eye care or eyewear update you have been putting off.

Seacoast Vision Care is here to help you protect your eye health and use your vision benefits with confidence. Schedule your year-end visit today.