A flexible spending account (FSA) can provide a very important service to the insured — provided you use it in time. That’s why Hawaii Vision Clinic wants their patients throughout Aiea and Honolulu to know just how FSAs work. Whether you are scheduling an appointment with an ophthalmologist or are looking for financial assistance for services not usually covered by traditional health insurance policies, the following information will allow you to get the most out of your FSA.

What Is An FSA?

Many workplaces provide FSAs to their employees to cover health care costs. These accounts allow you to invest non-taxable money to pay for out-of-pocket health care expenditures. FSAs have a yearly limit of $2,550, and employers may elect to contribute to employee FSAs at their discretion.

Why Are Deadlines Important?

Most people with FSAs will lose the money invested if it is not used by the end of the year. It’s essential to confirm your specific deadline, as well as how much money is available to spend on medical needs. Workplaces do have the option of extending FSA benefits into the next year, but they are not required to by law.

What Can FSAs Be Used For?

FSAs are ideal to cover those treatments not currently paid for by your existing insurance policy. For instance, if your health insurance fails to cover Lasik, you can use your FSA to have the procedure performed by an ophthalmologist. FSAs can cover other procedures as well, including Botox treatments, body contouring, and can even provide funding for prescription glasses and sunglasses.

Dr. William K. Wong, Jr. and the staff at Hawaii Vision Clinic look forward to providing patients with the best in ophthalmological and aesthetic treatments. In Honolulu, schedule your appointment with an ophthalmologist by calling (808) 594-9194 for Honolulu, or call (808) 487-7938 to reach the Aiea location. You can also discover the full range of services by visiting their clinic online.