We are used to seeing health cards used in hospitals for consultation. But one thing that also excited us is the availability of coverage for eyeglasses. Let’s take a look at how you can avail this benefit.
Are Eyeglasses Covered?
Yes and it depends on your HMO plan. The visual impairment of members can be subject to coverage of health cards especially if there is a confirmed diagnosis. You need to provide the prescription from the accredited ophthalmologist in order to get the eyeglasses.
HMO List
Which HMOs have member coverage for eyeglasses?
Maxicare
Based on the info we gathered, the coverage is up to Php 2,500 as a reimbursement when you buy prescription eyeglasses. A check up with the doctor as well as an eye exam will be the requirement.
Medicard
In Medicard, there is a discount rate for eyeglasses by simply presenting your card. It is a promo for members and may be available only once announced again. Up to 20% discount was given to frames and sunglasses based on the previous promo.
Avega
Avega has a special partnership with some eye centers for you to get discounts. Simply present your card and a form from the employer. This procedure and amount of coverage will depend on your plan.
Intellicare
The company has a special partnership with some eye centers such as Vision Express. EO and Ideal vision are also partners for eye care coverage. You can get free evaluation or eye exam plus up to 15% discount on sunglasses with prescription.
On a personal note, I have not found an HMO that covers the entire cost of eyeglasses. In my case, I was only able to avail coverage for the consultation with an ophthalmologist, a usual benefit.
Benefits
The usual benefits of health cards when it comes to eyeglasses purchase are:
- Free eye exam
- Up to 20% off on prescription eyeglasses (varies)
- Free contact lens kit (for every purchase)
- Free frame repair and cleaning
How to Avail
You need to bring your health card together with the form from your company. There is an approval process before you can reimburse your transaction at a specified amount.
Depending on your card, you should always check with your provider or even the company’s HR to confirm your benefits. In most cases, company orientations will tell you about the optical coverage of their HMO.
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