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The end of 2019 is only a few weeks away. As such, now is the perfect time to schedule an eye exam if you have vision insurance. Beyond checking for common conditions, doing so will also allow you to make the most of your insurance’s benefits. To better understand why you need to schedule your next appointment before the end of the year, consult the guide below. 

Why Schedule an Eye Exam Now

When you sign up for a vision insurance policy, you are only covered until the end of the year. While you can re-enroll in January, you won’t have access to any contributions you’ve made toward your deductible in 2019. Most plans require you to hit an out-of-pocket maximum before they start fully covering your expenses, and these deductibles reset each year. 

eye examIf you have a flexible spending account (FSA), deductions from your paycheck won’t fully roll over into the new year. FSAs only allow up to $500 in carryover balances.

Alaska residents may also participate in the Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). This balance, which can go toward covering glasses or contacts, also expires at the end of the year. 

How to Use Your Benefits Before They Expire

The easiest way to make the most of your vision insurance is to schedule a routine eye exam before the end of the year and pay for it using your FSA. If your doctor says you need to update your prescription, you can pay for the new glasses or contacts using your PFD or FSA.

If you’ve already had a routine eye exam this year, there are other ways to spend the remainder of your balance. You can purchase new frames, accessories like cleaning solutions or cloths, a new case, or prescription sunglasses.

 

If you need to get an eye exam before the end of the year, schedule an appointment with the compassionate professionals at West Valley Vision Center in Fairbanks, AK. With three knowledgeable optometrists on staff and a broad range of services, they have everything you need to ensure optimal eye health. Visit them online to learn more about their practice, and call (907) 479-4700 to schedule your exam today.

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