There are two types of insurance is available to residents of Los Angeles and Ventura County. Medical insurance and vision or optical insurance. We have discussed Eyemed and VSP lasik. Now we discuss benefits of medical insurance for LASIK eye surgery.
Lasik is a life-changing procedure for many, offering long-term vision correction and freedom from glasses or contacts. But the price of LASIK can be a major thing for those considering the surgery. While LASIK is generally classified as an elective procedure, some insurance plans may offer discounts or financing options to make it more affordable. Let’s break down how much LASIK can cost with insurance and what options are available to help cover the expenses.
Average Cost of LASIK Without Insurance
On average, LASIK surgery costs between $2,000 and $3,300 per eye in the United States. The final price can vary depending on factors like the surgeon’s expertise, the technology used, and the geographical location. This cost typically includes the procedure, initial consultation, and follow-up visits.
Does Insurance Cover LASIK?
Most standard insurance plans, including vision insurance, do not fully cover LASIK surgery because it’s considered an elective or cosmetic procedure. However, many insurers offer discount programs or partnerships with LASIK providers that can lower the cost for policyholders. These discounts can range from 10% to 25% off the total cost, depending on the provider and plan.
What Affects the Cost of LASIK With Insurance Discounts?
When using insurance discounts, the cost of LASIK surgery can vary based on:
- Your Insurance Plan: Not all plans offer the same discounts, so it’s important to review your policy or contact your insurance provider to understand what savings are available.
- The LASIK Surgeon and Technology: Surgeons with more experience or those using advanced technology (like bladeless LASIK) may charge higher fees, even after insurance discounts.
- Geographic Location: The cost of LASIK can fluctuate depending on where you live, with prices generally being higher in large cities or more affluent regions.
Cost Breakdown Example: LASIK With Insurance Discounts
Let’s assume the average cost of LASIK is $2,500 per eye:
- Without insurance: The total cost would be approximately $5,000 for both eyes.
- With a 15% insurance discount: The cost would drop to $4,250 (a savings of $750).
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Aetna, EyeMed, and Medicaid Cover LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK eye surgery is a popular vision correction procedure, but many wonder if major insurance providers like Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Aetna, EyeMed, or Medicaid cover the costs. Since LASIK is often considered elective, insurance coverage varies depending on the provider and plan. Let’s explore how these insurers handle LASIK and what alternatives are available for financing the surgery.
1. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
Blue Cross Blue Shield typically classifies LASIK as an elective procedure, meaning it is not considered medically necessary. As a result, standard BCBS plans often do not cover the cost of LASIK surgery. However, BCBS may offer discounts through partnerships with LASIK providers. These discounts can reduce the total out-of-pocket costs for members. It’s essential to check your specific BCBS policy or contact customer service to learn about potential discounts.
2. Cigna
Cigna, like many other insurance providers, generally does not cover LASIK under its standard vision plans since it is an elective procedure. That said, Cigna may offer discount programs or partner with LASIK providers to provide members with reduced rates. These discount programs vary by state and plan, so contacting Cigna or reviewing your policy is the best way to determine if any savings are available for LASIK.
3. Aetna
Aetna also considers LASIK an elective procedure and does not provide direct coverage. However, Aetna often partners with LASIK surgeons and offers members discounts on the procedure. In some cases, Aetna’s premium vision plans or employer-sponsored health plans may include optional coverage or discounted rates for LASIK. If you have Aetna insurance, it’s worth exploring any LASIK discount options that might be available.
4. EyeMed
EyeMed is a dedicated vision insurance provider, and while most of their plans do not cover LASIK, they do offer access to discounts. EyeMed members can take advantage of reduced rates at partner LASIK facilities. Some EyeMed plans provide up to a 15% discount on LASIK services through affiliated surgeons. It’s important to check the details of your EyeMed plan for specific LASIK discount opportunities.
5. Medicaid
Medicaid, a government-funded healthcare program, focuses on essential medical services for low-income individuals and families. Because LASIK is considered a non-essential, elective procedure, Medicaid typically does not cover LASIK eye surgery. However, Medicaid may cover vision correction services like glasses or contact lenses, which are considered medically necessary.
Alternatives to Insurance Coverage for LASIK
If your insurance plan does not cover LASIK, there are other ways to reduce the cost:
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA): Both FSAs and HSAs allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for medical expenses, including LASIK surgery.
LASIK Financing Options
- For those whose insurance doesn’t provide sufficient discounts, many LASIK centres like Khanna Vision Institute offer financing plans that allow patients to pay for the surgery over time. These plans may offer low-interest or interest-free options for qualified patients, making the procedure more accessible.
- LASIK Financing Options: We offer $0 down 0% APR for 24 months financing plans. This medical financing plan allow you to pay for the procedure over time which can vary from 6 months to 24 months. The affordable monthly plans are similar to car payments.
In conclusion, if you’re considering LASIK eye surgery and want to explore insurance coverage or available discounts, Khanna Vision Institute is a great option.
We will work with you and your insurance plan to get you the best pricing for life changing vision correction through surgery.
Contact Khanna Vision Institute today to discuss how your insurance plan may apply and discover the most affordable path to clearer vision through LASIK.
