Does insurance cover LASIK?

Understanding insurance and LASIK can help you plan financially for the procedure.

Why Insurance Doesn't Cover LASIK

Most health insurance plans consider LASIK:

• Elective: Not medically necessary
• Cosmetic: Enhances lifestyle, not health
• Alternative exists: Glasses/contacts available

This classification applies to most plans, including:

• Employer health insurance
• Individual marketplace plans
• Medicare
• Medicaid

What Vision Insurance Offers

Vision discount plans (VSP, EyeMed, etc.) often provide:

• Discounts: 10-25% off LASIK
• Preferred providers: Network surgeons
• Special promotions: Additional savings

Check your vision plan benefits for LASIK discounts.

When Insurance MAY Cover LASIK

Rare situations where coverage might apply:

• Severe contact lens intolerance with documentation
• Certain occupational requirements
• Anisometropia (large difference between eyes)
• Post-injury/surgery correction

These require pre-authorization and extensive documentation.

Alternative Payment Options

HSA/FSA (Health Savings/Flexible Spending Accounts)

• LASIK is an eligible expense
• Pay with pre-tax dollars
• Save 20-35% depending on tax bracket

Financing Plans

• CareCredit
• Alphaeon Credit
• In-house payment plans
• Often 0% interest for 12-24 months

Tax Deduction

• May qualify as medical expense deduction
• Must exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income
• Consult tax professional