In most cases, yes — but the details depend on which kind of coverage applies, and that trips a lot of people up. The short version: a routine eye exam is usually handled by a vision plan, while an exam for a medical eye problem is usually billed to your regular health insurance. Knowing the difference saves you both money and surprises.
A vision plan is designed for routine care: your annual eye exam and an allowance toward glasses or contacts. Your medical insurance, on the other hand, covers exams and treatment related to a medical condition — think dry eye, infections, diabetic eye exams, glaucoma, or an injury. Same office, same doctor, different billing lane. Occasionally a single visit touches both, and we will help you sort out which is which.
Most vision plans cover a comprehensive exam (sometimes with a copay) plus a set allowance toward eyewear. Coverage varies quite a bit between plans, so the most reliable move is to verify your specific benefits before your visit — which our team is glad to help with.
Bring your vision plan card and your medical insurance card, a photo ID, and a list of any current medications. If you are not sure what you have or what it covers, just call our Myrtle Beach office at (843) 796-1155 and we will help you figure out your benefits before you ever sit in the chair.
A vision plan covers routine exams and eyewear; medical insurance covers exams and treatment for eye health problems like infections, dry eye, or diabetic eye disease. Which one applies depends on the reason for your visit.
Your vision plan card, your medical insurance card, a photo ID, your current glasses or contacts, and a list of medications. When in doubt, call ahead and we will verify your coverage.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jason Siegmund, OD, a board-certified optometric physician at Siegmund Eye Care in Myrtle Beach.
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